Sebastian Barry's The Secret Scripture crafts a lyrical and poignant narrative of an elderly woman reflecting on her life marred by institutionalization. Critics praise Barry's poetic prose and intricate characterization. However, some argue that the dual narrative can be confusing. Overall, the novel's emotional depth and historical context are compelling, though its structure may challenge some readers.

A reader who would enjoy The Secret Scripture by Sebastian Barry likely appreciates lyrical prose and intricate character studies. Fans of mental health themes and historical depth, similar to books like The Night Watch by Sarah Waters or Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt, will find this book compelling.

The Secret Scripture by Sebastian Barry tells the story of Roseanne Clear McNulty, a nearly 100-year-old patient at Roscommon Regional Medical Hospital, and Dr. William Grene, who has been her psychiatrist for 24 years. While Roseanne writes her personal history, Dr. Grene documents his observations of her, gradually uncovering the true reasons behind her institutionalization and the tragic events of her past. Contains themes of mental health, wrongful institutionalization, and historical violence.

Melancholic / Mysterious / Contemplative / Nostalgic / Emotional

- The Secret Scripture was shortlisted for the 2008 Man Booker Prize, one of the most prestigious literary awards in the English-speaking world.
- Author Sebastian Barry has a strong theatrical background, which influences the novel's rich narrative style and complex character development.
- The novel received the James Tait Black Memorial Prize for Fiction in 2008, an award recognized for its emphasis on literary quality.

**Roseanne Clear McNulty**  
Roseanne is an elderly woman who has lived in mental institutions for most of her life, under the care of Dr. Grene. Her memories and life story, particularly around her family and past relationships, are central to the narrative.

**Dr. William Grene**  
Dr. Grene is the psychiatrist at Roscommon asylum who has developed an interest in Roseanne and her life story, seeking to understand the reasons for her long-term institutionalization.

**Joe Clear**  
Joe Clear is Roseanne’s father, known for his work as a cemetery superintendent and rat-catcher, who shared a close bond with his daughter through shared activities and storytelling.

**Cissy Clear**  
Cissy is Roseanne's mother, whose life was marked by unhappiness and eventual mental breakdown, contributing to the struggles within the family.

**Thomas “Tom” Oliver McNulty**  
Tom was Roseanne’s husband, a musician with strong beliefs about social class, whose marriage to Roseanne faced significant challenges and influences from those around him.

**Jack McNulty**  
Jack is Tom’s brother, an educated and class-conscious individual who worked abroad and maintained specific social standards, including a focus on appearances and status.

**Eneas McNulty**  
Eneas is a family outcast and soldier who shares a brief but significant connection with Roseanne, impacting the course of her life.

**Father Aloysius Mary Gaunt**  
Father Gaunt is a Catholic priest who played a significant role in guiding and influencing aspects of Roseanne’s life, holding particular views about women and religion.

**Mrs. McNulty**  
Mrs. McNulty is Roseanne’s mother-in-law, noted for her strong religious beliefs and disapproval of Roseanne, which affected family dynamics.

**Old Tom McNulty**  
Old Tom is the jovial father figure in the McNulty family who played music with his son and showed empathy towards Roseanne during difficult times.

Sebastian Barry

Adult

Novel

McNulty Family

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Secret Scripture  and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Secret Scripture  Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Chapters 1-3

The Secret Scripture  Part 1, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 4-6

The Secret Scripture  Part 1, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 7-9

The Secret Scripture  Part 1, Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 10-11

The Secret Scripture  Part 1, Chapters 10-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 12-14

The Secret Scripture  Part 2, Chapters 12-14 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 15-17

The Secret Scripture  Part 2, Chapters 15-17 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 18-20

The Secret Scripture  Part 3, Chapters 18-20 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 21-22

The Secret Scripture  Part 3, Chapters 21-22 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The Secret Scripture  Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The Secret Scripture  Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Secret Scripture  Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Secret Scripture  Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Secret Scripture  Essay Topics

The Secret Scripture

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read The Secret Scripture ?

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