In the play "Translations" by Brian Friel, language is used as a source of power and conflict, as the Irish only speak Gaelic and the British soldiers only speak English. This both strengthens the barrier between the two parties and further exposes their differences.
Father-and-son relationships play an important role in the play "Translations" by Brian Friel. The main father figure of Hugh is seen more as an educator of his town rather than his son, Manus. The father figure has parallels to the power of the colonizing British army as in occupied Ireland in 1833.
The character of Owen changes dramatically as the plot progresses in "Translations" by Brian Friel. Owen can be seen as a traitor or helper to the Irish people and the soldiers, as a hero, a villain and as a careless deserter, or a returning saviour whose example should be followed.
Explores the references to myth and reality in Translations, by Friel. Explores how characters Hugh and Owen recognize the value of myth. Describes how Friel uses mythology, the idylls and wishes of the past to provide comfort and hope to the present.
