68 pages • 2 hours read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
332
Novel • Fiction
Ireland • 20th century
2008
Adult
18+ years
The Secret Scripture by Sebastian Barry tells the story of Roseanne Clear McNulty, a nearly 100-year-old patient at Roscommon Regional Medical Hospital, and Dr. William Grene, who has been her psychiatrist for 24 years. While Roseanne writes her personal history, Dr. Grene documents his observations of her, gradually uncovering the true reasons behind her institutionalization and the tragic events of her past. Contains themes of mental health, wrongful institutionalization, and historical violence.
Melancholic
Mysterious
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Emotional
26,072 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sebastian Barry's The Secret Scripture crafts a lyrical and poignant narrative of an elderly woman reflecting on her life marred by institutionalization. Critics praise Barry's poetic prose and intricate characterization. However, some argue that the dual narrative can be confusing. Overall, the novel's emotional depth and historical context are compelling, though its structure may challenge some readers.
A reader who would enjoy The Secret Scripture by Sebastian Barry likely appreciates lyrical prose and intricate character studies. Fans of mental health themes and historical depth, similar to books like The Night Watch by Sarah Waters or Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt, will find this book compelling.
26,072 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Dr. William Grene
Dr. Grene is the psychiatrist at Roscommon asylum who has developed an interest in Roseanne and her life story, seeking to understand the reasons for her long-term institutionalization.
Joe Clear
Joe Clear is Roseanne’s father, known for his work as a cemetery superintendent and rat-catcher, who shared a close bond with his daughter through shared activities and storytelling.
Cissy Clear
Cissy is Roseanne's mother, whose life was marked by unhappiness and eventual mental breakdown, contributing to the struggles within the family.
Thomas “Tom” Oliver McNulty
Tom was Roseanne’s husband, a musician with strong beliefs about social class, whose marriage to Roseanne faced significant challenges and influences from those around him.
Jack McNulty
Jack is Tom’s brother, an educated and class-conscious individual who worked abroad and maintained specific social standards, including a focus on appearances and status.
Eneas McNulty
Eneas is a family outcast and soldier who shares a brief but significant connection with Roseanne, impacting the course of her life.
Father Aloysius Mary Gaunt
Father Gaunt is a Catholic priest who played a significant role in guiding and influencing aspects of Roseanne’s life, holding particular views about women and religion.
Mrs. McNulty
Mrs. McNulty is Roseanne’s mother-in-law, noted for her strong religious beliefs and disapproval of Roseanne, which affected family dynamics.
Old Tom McNulty
Old Tom is the jovial father figure in the McNulty family who played music with his son and showed empathy towards Roseanne during difficult times.
332
Novel • Fiction
Ireland • 20th century
2008
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.