Photo AI
From your reading of Seosamh De Brún’s diary extracts, describe the mood amongst the Volunteers, and the conditions they experienced inside Jacob’s Biscuit Factory - Leaving Cert English - Question Question A - 2016
Question Question A
From your reading of Seosamh De Brún’s diary extracts, describe the mood amongst the Volunteers, and the conditions they experienced inside Jacob’s Biscuit Factory. ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:From your reading of Seosamh De Brún’s diary extracts, describe the mood amongst the Volunteers, and the conditions they experienced inside Jacob’s Biscuit Factory - Leaving Cert English - Question Question A - 2016
Step 1
Describe the mood and conditions inside Jacob’s Biscuit Factory
Answer
In Seosamh De Brún's diary, the mood among the Volunteers inside Jacob's Biscuit Factory is depicted as a blend of fear, nervousness, and hope. The volunteers are described as both anxious about the unfolding events and supportive of each other. They are in a confined space with limited resources, facing the uncertainty of their surroundings and the external threats of the Rising.
The conditions they experience include confinement due to barricades, which raises feelings of claustrophobia. Supplies are sparse, which can lead to feelings of deprivation, but there is also a camaraderie that develops among the volunteers. They demonstrate resourcefulness by utilizing the facilities available at the factory, trying to maintain morale under challenging circumstances.
Step 2
What similarities and differences do you notice between De Brún and Lomas?
Answer
The similarities between the experiences recorded by De Brún and Lomas include the sense of urgency and the immediate impact of the Rising on both men. Both men express feelings of tiredness and the stress of staying alert throughout the tumultuous week. They detail how food shortages affect their morale and energy levels, highlighting the common struggles faced by both the Volunteers and British soldiers.
However, the differences are also significant. De Brún, a Volunteer, expresses a strong sense of purpose and motivation despite the fear, while Lomas, a British soldier, conveys a sense of duty often overshadowed by confusion and the harsh realities of military orders. Additionally, Lomas does not have the same level of community support that De Brún experiences among his comrades, as the volunteers share their experiences and strategies in a more collective manner.
Step 3
Diary entry as Paddy Callan
Answer
24th April 1916
Today has been a whirlwind. The atmosphere in the factory was tense as we prepared for what might come our way. We’ve felt the weight of the world on our shoulders, with the streets of Dublin slowly heating up with the fervor of our cause. The support from comrades has been our saving grace, but it’s hard to ignore the fear lingering among us. Each moment feels stretched as we engage in hushed conversations about our fate.
The supplies seem to dwindle, yet we strive to sustain our spirits. I reflect on how we are not just fighting for ourselves but for every man who follows. I try to remain hopeful, reminding myself that together we can make a stand, for liberty is worth every scar and struggle we endure. We will hold our position.
As I pen this, I can hear faint gunfire in the distance. Each sound ignites a mix of adrenaline and dread. I am concerned about my friends and my family outside these walls. We’ve prepared as best we can, but the unpredictability weighs heavily on my heart. I pray for our success and look forward to the moment when we can finally see the dawn of a new day.