Ireland and Europe: the "European Experience" in Selected Works of Modern Irish Fiction

Abstract

The mobility of people within Europe is reflected in a number of works of modern Irish literary fiction. This article explores how the "European experience" is reflected in a selection of short or long prose fiction by younger Irish authors, mainly born around 1950 or after. After a look at the reasons expressed by the characters for leaving Ireland, their "European experience" is analysed, including the impact that their time in Europe has on how they view their own culture. This is followed by an exploration of intercultural encounters between Irish and Continental characters within Ireland. The article concludes with a brief look at the significance of language and communication within these contexts.