Rory O'More: A National Romance: Analysis of Major Characters
"Rory O'More: A National Romance" explores the intertwining lives of its characters against the backdrop of Ireland's struggle for freedom. At the center is Rory O'More, an Irish peasant dedicated to his cause, who faces numerous challenges, including the need to flee to America with his wife, Kathleen. His sister, Mary O'More, is set to marry Horace de Lacy, a gentleman and Irish patriot who becomes embroiled in the rebellion of 1798. The character of Shan Regan, Mary’s suitor who is spurned, creates tension as he prohibits Kathleen's marriage to Rory, leading to their secret union.
The narrative also features de Welskein, a smuggler whose self-interest leads to betrayal, and Scrubbs, an English tax collector, whose confrontation with Rory escalates legal troubles for him. The story is rich with themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the quest for freedom, highlighting the complex relationships and societal pressures faced by its characters. This analysis delves into how these major characters embody the struggles and aspirations of their time, making it a poignant exploration of personal and national identity.
Rory O'More: A National Romance: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Samuel Lover
First published: 1837
Genre: Novel
Locale: Southern Ireland
Plot: Adventure
Time: 1798
Rory O'More, an Irish peasant who suffers through his unselfish efforts for Irish freedom and has to escape to America with his wife Kathleen.
Mary O'More, his sister, who is to marry Horace de Lacy in America.
Shan Regan, who is refused marriage to Mary and therefore forbids his sister Kathleen's marriage to Rory. After many crimes, he is killed by the police.
Kathleen Regan, Shan's sister. Shan refuses her to be married to Rory, so they marry in secret.
Horace de Lacy, an Irish patriot who brings Napoleon's offer of aid in the rebellion of 1798. He contracts smallpox and is nursed by Mary. The family is proud to have this gentleman of good bloodlines share their home. He returns to France to find that his sweetheart has married another man and that Napoleon has withdrawn his promised support of Ireland. He returns to Ireland, then travels to America, where he will marry Mary O'More.
De Welskein, a smuggler to whom profit means more than political liberty. Although he is saved by Rory and de Lacy, he betrays them and ships them to France.
Scrubbs, an English tax collector. Rory is charged with his murder. Scrubbs reappears at the trial, but even so, Rory is convicted. The judge sets the verdict aside.
The Colonel of the Police, who is outwitted by Rory.