Historical Background for 'The Sniper' by Liam O’Flaherty

These flashcards cover significant vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on 'The Sniper' by Liam O’Flaherty, focusing on historical context, character descriptions, and themes.

Irish Republican Army (IRA)

A paramilitary organization in Ireland that engaged in guerilla warfare during the Irish War of Independence.

Anglo-Irish Treaty

A 1921 agreement that created the Irish Free State as a dominion within the British Commonwealth.

civil war

A conflict between groups within the same country, in this case between Republicans and Free Staters in Ireland.

beleaguered

Surrounded by hostile forces; besieged.

spasmodically

Suddenly and violently; irregularly or in spasms.

Republicans

Supporters of the IRA who opposed the Anglo-Irish Treaty and wanted full independence from British rule.

Free Staters

Those who supported the 1922 treaty that kept Northern Ireland as part of Britain.

ascetic

Describing a person who denies themselves pleasures and comforts for religious reasons.

fanatic

A person who is excessively and uncritically devoted to a cause or belief.

parapet

A low wall along the edge of a balcony, roof, bridge, etc.

turret

An armored dome mounted with one or more guns.

breastwork

A low wall built for defense.

paroxysm

A sudden attack or convulsion; fit.

ruse

A trick or strategy used to deceive.

gibber

To chatter senselessly or make rapid indistinct noises.