Act of Union: Plot

“Act of Union: Plot”

Overview

• “Act of Union” is a political themed poem by Seamus Heaney reflecting on the political turmoil of Ireland’s history, particularly focusing on the Act of Union in 1801.

The Poem’s Structure and Progression

• The poem follows a two-part sonnet structure, both following the Petrarchan rhyme scheme.

• The first sonnet adopts the voice of Britain, portrayed as a male persona. This part sees Britain justify the union with Ireland under the guise of a benevolent father figure who wishes to protect the vulnerable Ireland.

• The second sonnet shifts from Britain’s sermonic assurance to a haunting prophecy of Ireland’s inevitable rebellion. This prophecy is personified in the form of a foetus, which represents a nascent and impending resistance against the forced union.

Key Events in the Poem

• The poem opens with the forced union, symbolised by an aggressive act of intercourse between the ‘You’ (Britain) and ‘I’ (Ireland).

• The aftermath of the union is addressed in the subsequent lines of the first sonnet where Britain attempts to reassure Ireland, promising growth and prosperity.

• The second sonnet introduces a foetus, a child born out of the forced union. This child carries an inherent anger, waiting to burst out.

• The poem concludes with a reminder of the resentment and bitter legacy this forced union will leave behind.