How did Synge’s meeting with Yeats change the former’s career? [British Drama (2018-19) Assignment 2]

 The meeting between J.M. Synge and W.B. Yeats in 1896 had a profound impact on Synge's career and the development of Irish theatre.

Before meeting Yeats, Synge had been studying music and literature in Germany, but was struggling to find his artistic voice. Yeats recognized Synge's potential as a playwright and encouraged him to explore Irish themes and subject matter.

Under Yeats' guidance, Synge began to immerse himself in Irish folklore, language, and customs. He traveled to the Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland, where he lived among the local people and learned their way of life. This experience inspired him to write his most famous work, "The Playboy of the Western World," which premiered in 1907.

Yeats also helped to secure funding for the Irish Literary Theatre, which was founded in 1899 and produced several of Synge's plays, including "The Well of the Saints" and "Riders to the Sea."

Through his association with Yeats and the Irish Literary Theatre, Synge became a leading figure in the Irish literary and cultural revival of the early 20th century. He played a significant role in shaping the development of Irish theatre and helping to establish it as a distinct and vibrant form of theatrical expression.

In short, Synge's meeting with Yeats was a pivotal moment in his career, which inspired him to explore Irish themes and subject matter and helped to establish him as a leading figure in the Irish literary and cultural revival.