Phsyical Escape Sive

Question 1

Why she wants to escape

Answer 1

• Sive is trapped in an arranged marriage to an old, repulsive man, Sean Dóta:
“As old as the hills!”
“He made a mad dive at me! He nearly tore the coat off me.”

Question 2

How she tries to escape

Answer 2

• Sive relies on others (Pats, Liam Scuab, Nanna), not herself.
• She lacks agency and inner strength to act alone.
• Meena’s manipulation and deceit block all efforts:
“He wished you joy and plenty on your wedding.” (a lie told by Meena)

Question 3

Effect of her escape attempt

Answer 3

Sive’s escape fails, and she dies by suicide — a tragic result of powerlessness and betrayal.
Her final movements on stage:
“She rises slowly, wearily… tired and dispirited.”
• The atmosphere is filled with dramatic irony, as others celebrate the wedding unaware of her death.

Question 4

Deeper meaning of her escape

Answer 4

Escape is unattainable for vulnerable people in oppressive societies.
Keane critiques rural patriarchy, economic desperation, and the abuse of power.