Customer Reviews

The Wild Irish Girl: A National Tale (Oxford World's Classics)

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3 star:		(1)
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In a strictly academic way, this book is important and useful and should be read as part of the Anglo-Irish literary canon. I did not find it to be a fascinating read however. It is extremely melodramatic with gothic overtones. The plot is fairly predictable and while Owenson is claiming 'positive' and 'cultured' qualities for the denigrated Irish, she ends up romanticizing her characters. Love and marriage are the typical solutions to deepset political differences. If only it worked that way. . .

I think this is a must read for any Irish lit fan. Published soon after the Act of Union 1800, this book really makes Ireland shine. A Englishman's journey to Ireland is confronted with a rude awakening. Everything he thought (stereotypes) about Ireland turns out to be false (well, the bad stuff anyway). Lady Morgan paints a vivid view of the green Isle, from the harsh reality (and descriptions) of the poor, to the beautiful views. I can see how after only 2yrs (i believe) it went through many editions. Must have slapped the English right in their face. While it might not be the best book you will ever read, if anything about Ireland intrigues you- this book will do wonders.

From begining to end, this novel/history is a page turner. I read this book in one night, I COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN! To follow this true love story is to believe in miracles!