Representation of the Voiceless in J. M. Synge’s The Well of the Saints

Abstract

This research based on J. M. Synge’s The Well of the Saints makes a critical observation on the social and political situation of the economically backward groups of people. Political framework have been set up in such a way that the power has remained within the reach of small groups of the elite rulers. This political formation is such that the power, influence and opportunities are limited within the reach of those who are in and around the state powers. Hence, a large group of people’s interest, social and political demands is negated in the course of human development. This discrimination becomes even more pathetic when the people are physically challenged and belong to weaker section of the society. The old couples in The Well of the Saints depict the pathetic situation of people who are not in the main stream of politics and power. Hence, the notion of subaltern people is a historical phenomenon to which they are a systematic victim. Even the formation of the state is also based on the interest of the small groups of rulers, and hence, there is the continuation of those groups of people that are systematically deprived of social and political approach and hence historically are subject to subjugation.