discuss maurya's character in ''riders to the sea''as a mother and a priest....thanks ! :)

No one will do your assignment for you, but someone will be happy to read what YOU WRITE and add suggestions and comments.

i have read the play..but i don't understand how to approach the question..if somebody could help me out that would be great..because im lost :(

In the play "Riders to the Sea" by J.M. Synge, Maurya is a central character who serves as both a mother and a priest-like figure for her family. Let's discuss her character in both of these roles and how they contribute to the overall themes and conflicts within the play.

As a mother, Maurya's character is defined by her maternal instincts and her deep love for her family. She is a widowed mother who has already lost five of her sons to the sea, and her remaining son Bartley is about to embark on a dangerous journey. Maurya's primary concern is ensuring the safety and well-being of her loved ones. Her grief and fear over the constant threat of losing her family to the merciless sea are palpable throughout the play.

To understand Maurya's character as a mother, it's important to analyze the text of the play. Pay attention to her words and actions, such as her pleas to her sons to stay home and not risk their lives on the sea. Look for instances where Maurya displays her deep sense of loss and despair, and how she tries to protect her family from further tragedy. This will help you understand how her character is developed as a mother figure.

Now, let's delve into Maurya's role as a priest-like figure. In the play, she has a certain mysticism about her, and her intuitive understanding of the sea's power gives her a prophetic quality. Maurya is portrayed as having a spiritual connection to the elements, almost like a priestess or oracle. She foresees the death of her son and has a sense of hidden knowledge about the future.

To explore Maurya's priest-like characteristics, examine her dialogue and interactions with other characters. Notice how she speaks with a sense of authority and foretells events with an almost prophetic certainty. Pay attention to the symbolic language and imagery used to describe her connection to the supernatural or spiritual realm. By analyzing her role as a priest-like figure, you can gain insights into the play's themes of fate, acceptance, and the power of the natural world.

In conclusion, Maurya in "Riders to the Sea" is a complex character who embodies both the nurturing and spiritual aspects of a mother and a priest-like figure. To fully understand her character, carefully examine her actions, dialogue, and symbolism in the play. By doing so, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the themes and conflicts portrayed in this tragic story of loss and resilience.