46 pages • 1 hour read
The Lieutenant of Inishmore
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Book Brief
80
Play • Fiction
Inishmore, Ireland • 1990s
2001
Adult
18+ years
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
3,609 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
3,609 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Donny
Donny
A middle-aged man responsible for looking after his son’s cat while engaging in humorous banter and schemes with Davey, despite lacking any paramilitary ambitions.
Padraic
Padraic
A fiercely violent and unpredictable young man engaged in paramilitary activities in Northern Ireland, deeply attached to his beloved pet cat.
Mairead
Mairead
A determined young girl aspiring to join a paramilitary group, skilled in marksmanship, who struggles with societal expectations of femininity.
Christy, Joey, and Brendan
Christy, Joey, and Brendan
A trio involved in a plot to lure Padraic back to town, with Christy leading and Joey notably disturbed by the violent tasks assigned to them.
James
James
A minor character who undergoes a punishment beating while displaying a level of self-awareness and attempts to manipulate his situation.
80
Play • Fiction
Inishmore, Ireland • 1990s
2001
Adult
18+ years
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