The Sniper By Liam O’Flaherty (1897-1984)

Setting: Time and Place Dublin, Ireland (Ireland’s largest city). Early 1920’s. There is a civil war (war between people of the same country) between the IRA (Irish Republican Army) and the Free States. Therefore, people are fighting against people they once fought alongside. The country is divided.

Helpful Vocabulary Guerilla warfare- sudden unexpected attacks carried out by an unofficial military group or groups that are trying to change the government by assaults on the armed forces Fleecy- The woolly coat of a sheep or goat Liffey- a river in Ireland Beleaguered- To surround with troops; besiege Four Courts- Ireland’s main courts building Spasmodically- convulsive Ascetic- Leading a life of self-discipline and self-denial, especially for spiritual improvement

Fanatic- a person with an extreme and uncritical enthusiasm or zeal, as in religion or politics Parapet- A low, protective wall along the edge of a roof, bridge, or balcony Turret- A low, flat armoured tower, typically one that revolves, for a gun and gunners in a ship, aircraft, fort, or tank Paroxysm- A sudden recurrence or attack of a disease; a sudden worsening of symptom Revolted- Cause to feel disgust Gibber- Speak rapidly and unintelligibly, typically through fear or shock