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영어

Most of John Millington Synge's plays center on conflicts resulting from differences in cultural values, attitudes and way of living. The Well of the Saints, along with his earlier plays Riders to the Sea and The Shadow of the Glen, contradicts the popular notion that Synge's peasants are primitives untouched by civilization or modernization, suggesting the rural Ireland is subject to the cultural transition. It presents more extended commentary on the conflict between individuals and villagers. Martin, a man of traditional values, is opposed by the villagers and the Saint, who long to make him conform to their standard. Both sides do not succeed, but Mary, Martin's wife, provides a clear example of the confusion which cultural transition incurs. She is also viewed as an embodiment of Synge's pursuit searching for reconciliation between the two sides in conflict.