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Martin McDonagh

The Lieutenant of Inishmore

Martin McDonaghFiction | Play | Adult | Published in 2001

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Book Brief

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Martin McDonagh

The Lieutenant of Inishmore

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 2001
Book Details
Pages

80

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Inishmore, Ireland • 1990s

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Martin McDonagh's The Lieutenant of Inishmore, a violent Irish Republican Army (IRA) enforcer named Padraic returns to his small Irish village after learning that his beloved cat, Wee Thomas, has mysteriously died. As Padraic confronts those he believes responsible, dark comedic chaos ensues, revealing treachery and unexpected allies in a farcical exploration of fanaticism and violence. This play includes explicit violence, torture, gunshots, murder, blood, anti-gay language, and the graphic killing of cats.

Dark

Unnerving

Humorous

Gritty

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

3,609 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Lieutenant of Inishmore by Martin McDonagh is often praised for its dark humor and biting satire, effectively critiquing political violence through absurdity. Critics appreciated its sharp dialogue and engaging plot, though some felt its graphic content and exaggerated violence were excessive. Overall, it's seen as a provocative and bold work, though not for the faint-hearted.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Lieutenant of Inishmore?

Readers who enjoy dark comedy and satirical takes on political violence will appreciate The Lieutenant of Inishmore by Martin McDonagh. Fans of the absurdity in A Confederacy of Dunces or the bleak humor in Catch-22 will find McDonagh's play equally engaging and thought-provoking.

4.4

3,609 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

80

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Inishmore, Ireland • 1990s

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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