Introduction: National Identity and Cultural Contradiction in Twentieth-century Ireland

Abstract

This book explores the genesis and institutionalisation of the Irish nationalist movement in the Republic of Ireland.¹ It is written with a critical attitude. Critical reflection is indispensable for examining the consequences of previous decisions and actions and for deliberating upon and establishing new goals for society. On the whole, a critical reflective attitude towards tradition has not been widespread in Ireland. Irish identity has appeared fragile, defensive and ultimately dismissive in the face of criticism, though a constant stream of dissatisfaction about Irish life permeates aesthetic, journalistic and everyday communication. This dissatisfaction until recently has failed to manifest itself as concentrated critique of key aspects of identity and institutional practices. The society has felt afraid of finding problems with itself and of exposing contradictions. This fear is now lifting and this book arrives in a climate of greater openness and deeper reflection. Scandals and crises abound to advance critical tendencies. They arise in areas such as state and business corruption, the exposure of the sexual crimes of clerics and the cruel authoritarianism of church institutions, the revision of abortion law and attitudes under the pressure of events, marital breakdown and the introduction of divorce. Looking across the spectrum of these issues, it is not difficult to see evidence that the single-mindedness of the Irish path through the twentieth century is becoming lost in a moral maze.