The Rising of the Moon by Lady Gregory Justification of the
Title.
Is the title of the play “The Rising of the Moon” justified?
The Title of the “Rising of the Moon”
Generally the title of work of art is the cream of it’s
content. A title which runs parallel with the theme is called an appropriate
title. “The Rising of the Moon” is not an exception to it. In fact the title is
highly suggestive of the sub-matter of the play.
The word ‘Rising’ is suggestive word. It suggests the
elevation from one stage to another.
Let us briefly analise the background of the play. The
Ireland was being ruled over by the British Government. The Irish people had
been persecuted by the British Government. When the persecution became
unbearable the people of Ireland raised their voices and started a movement of
their motherland. The Irish people wanted to deny the British rulers and to
make Ireland free.
The word ‘Moon’ is also a suggestive word. The soothing rays
of the moon cast on Earth, bring forth an environment free from irritation. The
atmosphere of Ireland was vitiated by the renting of the British rulers. With
the departure of the British rulers from the soil of Ireland, the unrest will
be out and peace will be pervading in the air of Ireland.
So the expression “The Rising of the Moon” suggests the end
of the British persecution. Freedom is going to take the place of bondage,
independence to dependence. Hence title of the play is apt and appropriate,
just and justified.
