First staged as part of the Celtic Revival, this classic drama is set in County Mayo. It depicts a man who learns that he can be what society wants him to be, and that once changed, he cannot go back to the person he was. Christy Mahon claims to be on the run after killing his father and captures the attention of the locals with his story. He becomes the town hero, and the women of the town vie for his attention. He also gains the attention of the headstrong Pegeen Mike, barmaid and daughter of the pub owner, who rejects her betrothed to catch Christy’s eye. When the truth of Christy’s story is revealed, he is labeled a liar and a coward and leaves town.

Students explore the origins of theater and are introduced to Celtic theater, including an examination of the Irish Literary Movement. They perform research and participate in creative writing; biographical writing, and archetypal criticism. Students learn to recognize story origins.