Subject
English drama -- Scottish authors Books
Best books
Isobel Wylie Hutchison
How joy was found : $b a fantasy
"How joy was found" by Isobel Wylie Hutchison is an allegorical fantasy play written in the early 20th century. Drawing on a Scottish folk-tale, it personifies inner qualities—Humanity, Duty, Obedience, Constancy, Faith, Love, Hope, and Truth—guided by a radiant “Big Young Hero,” in a spiritual quest to protect a child and recover Joy. The focus is a pilgrimage of faith and perception, with Finn (Humanity) learning to trust the vision and aid of his companions. The opening of the work sets its mythic frame on a paradisal isle where the Big Young Hero welcomes the Climber (Faith) and summons shadow-figures who become Finn’s helpers: the Carpenter (Duty), Tracker (Obedience), Gripper (Constancy), Thief (Love), Listener (Hope), and Marksman (Truth). In Argyll, the Hero binds Finn to keep His children, and Finn assembles this company, launching in a magic boat. They reach the Earth-Mother’s house, where a midnight Hand steals a baby after Finn dozes and blames others; the party splits, a storm nearly wrecks the boat, and a life-line cast by Faith brings rescue and steadies the helm. The action moves to the Giant’s eel-thatched castle: Faith opens a hidden brow-door by prayer and descends with Love to recover the child (and a puppy), but the Hand seizes her; Finn, chastened, admits his lies to Truth and follows her inside, as Faith confesses her own errors—the narrative breaking off at this crisis.
Donald A. (Donald Alexander) Mackenzie
The real Mackay
"The Real Mackay" by Donald A. Mackenzie is a one-act play that paints a vivid picture of life in a Scottish Highlands crofter's cottage. Written during the early 20th century, the play explores themes of love, societal class, and familial bonds. Set against the backdrop of a serene and picturesque environment, it focuses on the interactions between characters as they navigate personal struggles in a tight-knit community. The narrative centers around Widow Mackay and her daughter Màiri, who have faced personal losses and must contend with societal expectations. Màiri grapples with her feelings for Sandy Speedwell, a young artist and poet, who comes from a different social class, complicating their relationship. As misunderstandings arise—particularly involving Sandy’s mother—tensions mount until a moment of reconciliation allows the characters to confront their conflicts. The play culminates in a poignant resolution, highlighting the enduring nature of love and forgiveness amidst the constraints of class and social conventions.
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