Unit 11: The Protestant Nation, 1775-1800

Round out the information about Robert Emmet and the Rising of 1798.

MPs are Members of Parliament.

The last 25 years of the 18th century witnessed a growing discontent with the status quo in Ireland. Catholics wanted more liberties, Ulster wanted more trade, Protestants wanted more autonomy, adn everyone wanted to do better for themselves.

Readings and Activities

• Read Moody, chapter 15, pages 190-203
• Read Dunne, Cashel of Munster (80), In County Limerick (81-83), Garryowen (85-87), Sir Murtagh and His Lady (214-217), August 15, 1785 (218-219), The Bauld Robert Emmet (230-234), Speech from the Dock (227-230)
• Read Arnold, pages 68-92. Skim pages 68-86 and read carefully 86-92.
• Read The Rock of Cashel (electronic reserve)
  

Assignments

• Describe Henry Grattan's vision for Ireland. Contrast his views with Theobald Wolfe Tone's.
• Discuss the various events/people/influences that led to relaxing of the Penal Laws for Catholics.
• What impact did the French Revolution and the American Revolution have in Ireland?
• What was the Act of Union? What did it mean for Ireland?
• Discuss Robert Emmet and the Rising of 1803. According to his Speech from the Dock, what were they rebelling for and against?
• How did architecture of the late 18th century reflect the climate of the time? In what ways does it not represent its period of history?
• The remaining readings from Dunne are meant to lend a feeling for the poetry and prose of the time. They are varied. Indicate how each one relates to the life or times of this period in history.