Translations
by Brian Friel

Translations Book Cover
Translations Cover

Highlights

120 minsIrish

What readers are saying

Readers highly praise the insightful exploration of language and identity in the play. Many find the interplay of romance and colonialism compelling, creating a deeply emotional experience. The characters and their complex relationships resonate well with audiences, showcasing the effects of cultural imperialism. Overall, it is considered a beautifully written piece full of symbolism and meaning.

Deep exploration of language and identityCompelling characters and relationshipsEmotionally impactful and well-writtenSome found it tedious at times

Synopsis

The action takes place in late August 1833 at a hedge-school in the townland of Baile Beag, an Irish-speaking community in County Donegal.

In a nearby field camps a recently arrived detachment of the Royal Engineers, making the first Ordnance Survey.

For the purposes of cartography, the local Gaelic place names have to be recorded and rendered into English.

In examining the effects of this operation on the lives of a small group, Brian Friel skillfully reveals the far-reaching personal and cultural effects of an action which is at first sight purely administrative.

Videos

Translations | An Introduction | National Theatre

Publication

PublisherFaber & Faber
Year1995
BindingPaperback
Pages114
PlaceLondon
LanguageEnglish
ISBN-139780571117420
ISBN-100571117422
LCCN82147118
LCCPR6056.R5 T7 1981
DCC822/.914

Translations is a Irish play written by Brian Friel and published by Faber & Faber in London (1995).

Digital editions available on Amazon Kindle.

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3.8

9k ratings·17k reviews

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