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The Secret Scripture

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008

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Book Brief

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Sebastian Barry

The Secret Scripture

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

332

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ireland • 20th century

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

4.0

26,072 ratings

69%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Secret Scripture ?

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.

4.0

26,072 ratings

69%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Roseanne Clear McNulty

Roseanne is an elderly woman who has lived in mental institutions for most of her life, under the care of Dr. Grene. Her memories and life story, particularly around her family and past relationships, are central to the narrative.

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 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 is Roseanne's mother, whose life was marked by unhappiness and eventual mental breakdown, contributing to the struggles within the family.

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 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 is a family outcast and soldier who shares a brief but significant connection with Roseanne, impacting the course of her life.

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 is Roseanne’s mother-in-law, noted for her strong religious beliefs and disapproval of Roseanne, which affected family dynamics.

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.

Book Details
Pages

332

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ireland • 20th century

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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