Comment on the Significance of Maurya’s Vision in “Riders to the Sea”.

Answer

Comment on the significance of Maurya’s vision in “Riders to the Sea.”

Maurya’s vision in “Riders to the Sea” (1904) by J.M. Synge (1871-1909) holds significant thematic and symbolic importance in the play. Her visions, often premonitions or hallucinations, play a crucial role in shaping the tragic narrative.

Foreshadowing Tragedy: Maurya’s visions serve as a form of foreshadowing, foretelling the tragic fate that awaits her family. Before the actual events unfold, she sees images of her deceased family members, and these visions heighten the sense of impending doom.

When Bartley goes out to the sea with a red mare and a gray pony, Maurya becomes horrified to see a vision. She sees her dead son Michael riding on the gray pony just behind Bartley riding on the red mare. Her vision suggests that death is pursuing Bartley. Eventually, Bartey dies, and Maurya loses all her men to the sea. Maurya says,

Bartley came first on the red mare,

and I tried to say ” God speed you,” but something choked the words in my throat…

I looked up then, and I crying, at the grey pony,

and there was Michael upon it–with fine

clothes on him, and new shoes on his feet. 

Symbolism of the Sea’s Power: Maurya’s visions are closely tied to the power of the sea, symbolizing the destructive force that the ocean exerts on the islanders’ lives.

Characterization of Maurya: The visions contribute to its characterization. She is portrayed as an old and superstitious woman.

Impact on Audience: Maurya’s visions not only affect the play’s characters but also emotionally engage the audience. The foreknowledge of tragedy creates a sense of inevitability and tension. Maurya’s visions heighten the emotional impact of the unfolding events.

In conclusion, Maurya’s visions in “Riders to the Sea” serve as a powerful narrative device, contributing to the thematic depth of the play by foreshadowing tragedy.