logo

68 pages 2 hours read

Sebastian Barry

The Secret Scripture

Sebastian BarryFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008

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.

Essay Topics

1.

Both Joe Clear and Dr. Grene tell stories at various points in the novel about witnessing the supernatural, particularly visions of angels. What is the role of the supernatural in the novel? How is it connected to Christian faith?

2.

Early in the novel, Dr. Grene expresses his suspicion that Roseanne was not committed because of insanity but for social reasons. In conservative early-20th century Ireland, how might mental hospitals have been used, in concert with churches, to assert institutional control over women?

3.

What are the similarities between Cissy’s silent retreat from her family and Bet’s withdrawal from her marital bed? 

blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
Unlock IconUnlock all 68 pages of this Study Guide

Plus, gain access to 8,450+ more expert-written Study Guides.

Including features:

+ Mobile App
+ Printable PDF
+ Literary AI Tools