Irish Cinema

Catalog description

This course surveys the cinema and television of Ireland from the silent period to the present day, asking how Irish cinema fits within the wider domain of postcolonial film, literature, and media. The postcolonial context is important. Ireland’s independence from the British Empire is relatively recent and remains partial to this day. The freedom struggle was violent, and it lasted for centuries; not surprisingly, its effects continue to reverberate in Irish culture. As our screenings, readings and discussions demonstrate, the making of a distinctively Irish cinema is, necessarily, a process of cultural reflection on the history of the nation, and on state-engendered physical and emotional violence in particular. Topics covered include settler colonialism and land clearance, entrenched sectarian conflict, and state-sanctioned religious tyranny. We will examine Irish film and media not only in their historical context but also in relation to signature creative works from other twentieth century liberation and decolonization struggles. Assessment will be based on short essays, final group presentations, and ongoing participation.