1. The Sniper 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.

2. 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

3. 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