what were the causes and effects during DeValera’s era in ireland that created the belief that evil in literature and journalism came from abroad and that censorship was necessary to preserve Irish identity?
To understand the causes and effects during DeValera's era in Ireland that led to the belief that evil in literature and journalism came from abroad and the need for censorship to preserve Irish identity, we need to explore the historical context and analyze various factors. Let's break it down step by step:
1. Historical Background:
- DeValera's era in Ireland refers to his time as the dominant political figure from the 1930s to the 1950s.
- This period was marked by Ireland's struggle for independence and establishing its national identity after centuries of British rule.
- Irish nationalism, cultural revival, and efforts to preserve Irish language and traditions were significant aspects of this era.
2. Preservation of Irish Identity:
- After gaining independence, many Irish nationalists saw literature and journalism as influential tools to shape Irish cultural identity.
- There was a desire to create a distinctly Irish narrative, separate from British influences, to reinforce a sense of being uniquely Irish.
- This involved valuing and promoting works that exemplified Irish values, history, language, and traditions.
3. Perception of Foreign Influence:
- During DeValera's era, there was a prevalent belief that foreign influences, particularly from Britain, were threats to Irish identity.
- This perception stemmed from a history of colonization, English dominance, and efforts to suppress Irish culture and language.
- Many nationalists saw elements of foreign literature and journalism as potentially corrupting Ireland's cultural integrity and nationalistic aspirations.
4. The Catholic Church's Role:
- The influence of the Catholic Church during this time was significant, and it played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and policy.
- The Church often expressed concerns about the moral impact of foreign literature and journalism, aligning with the nationalist sentiment of preserving Irish values and traditions.
5. Censorship Laws and Effects:
- To address these concerns, DeValera's government introduced strict censorship laws, particularly through the Censorship of Publications Act in 1929.
- These laws aimed to control and restrict the flow of information deemed harmful to Irish identity, including publications from abroad.
- As a result, books, newspapers, and other forms of media were subject to censorship, limiting access to foreign ideas and content that went against the perceived national interest.
Effects of Censorship and Beliefs:
- The censorship measures resulted in restrictions on intellectual freedom and limited access to diverse perspectives, stifling artistic expression.
- Some argue that this censorship created an insular society and hindered intellectual and cultural progress. Others assert that it preserved Irish cultural heritage and protected national identity.
- The belief that evil in literature and journalism came from abroad and the need for censorship persisted in Ireland for decades, even after DeValera's era, albeit with varying degrees of enforcement.
In summary, during DeValera's era in Ireland, the belief that evil in literature and journalism came from abroad and the need for censorship to preserve Irish identity were influenced by a desire to establish a distinct Irish narrative, protect cultural integrity, and guard against foreign influences perceived as threats to Irish nationalism. These beliefs, fueled by historical context and supported by the Catholic Church's influence, led to the introduction of censorship laws with both positive and negative effects on Irish society.