Juno and the Paycock

By Seán O'Casey

"Juno and the Paycock" is a powerful and enduring masterpiece of Irish drama that vividly portrays the struggles of a working-class family during the turmoil of the Irish Civil War. Set in the cramped tenements of Dublin in 1922, the play centers on the Boyle family, led by the resilient and hard-working matriarch, Juno. While Juno strives to maintain order and dignity amidst grinding poverty, her husband, "Captain" Jack Boyle-the titular "Paycock"-spends his days shirking responsibility and drinking with his sycophantic companion, Joxer Daly.

The narrative masterfully blends biting comedy with profound tragedy as the family's hopes for a sudden inheritance collide with the harsh realities of social upheaval and personal betrayal. Through the characters of the disillusioned daughter, Mary, and the physically and mentally scarred son, Johnny, Sean O'Casey explores themes of nationalism, poverty, and the devastating impact of political violence on the domestic sphere. A cornerstone of the "Dublin Trilogy," this work is celebrated for its authentic dialogue, rich characterizations, and its poignant critique of the romanticization of war. "Juno and the Paycock" remains a vital exploration of the human spirit's endurance in the face of systemic adversity and familial collapse.

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• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1025762169
• ISBN13: 9781025762166
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Tradd Street Press
• Length: 126 Pages
• Weight: 0.79 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.1" x 9.2"