BOOK BRIEF

The Playboy of the Western World

J.M. Synge
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The Playboy of the Western World

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 2004

Book Brief

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J.M. Synge

The Playboy of the Western World

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

68

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

County Mayo, Ireland • 1900s

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Playboy of the Western World by J.M. Synge is a play centered on Christy Mahon, who captivates a rural Irish community by claiming he killed his father. As townspeople become enamored with Christy’s tale, the play explores themes of heroism, identity, and societal values, revealing the complexities of admiration and truth in human interactions.

Humorous

Mysterious

Adventurous

Playful

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

3.9

5,697 ratings

51%

Loved it

35%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Playboy of the Western World by J.M. Synge is praised for its rich language, wit, and exploration of themes like identity and heroism. Critics admire its dark humor and social commentary, though some find its portrayal of rural Irish life controversial. The play's engaging dialogue and dynamic characters captivate, despite periodic criticism of its pacing.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Playboy of the Western World?

A reader who enjoys The Playboy of the Western World by J.M. Synge likely appreciates Irish drama, dark humor, and social satire. They might also enjoy works like Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett or Arms and the Man by George Bernard Shaw for their exploration of human nature and societal norms.

3.9

5,697 ratings

51%

Loved it

35%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

68

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

County Mayo, Ireland • 1900s

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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