The Red and the Green By Iris Murdoch

The Red and the Green is a powerful historical novel set against the backdrop of the 1916 Easter Rising in Ireland. Iris Murdoch weaves a complex and deeply human story of political conflict, family loyalties, and personal identity, exploring the tensions between the British and Irish, Protestants and Catholics, and idealism and pragmatism.

The novel follows the intertwining lives of Anglo-Irish family members caught in the turmoil of the rebellion. As political loyalties clash with personal desires, Murdoch presents a deeply psychological exploration of love, duty, and betrayal. Through her richly drawn characters, she examines the complexities of national identity and the moral ambiguities of war and revolution.

Why Read This Book

• A gripping historical novel that captures the complexities of the Easter Rising.
• Explores themes of political identity, family loyalty, and moral dilemmas.
• Features Murdoch’s signature philosophical depth and psychological insight.
• A compelling blend of history, romance, and political intrigue.
• A must-read for fans of historical fiction, Irish history, and literary fiction.

About the Author

Iris Murdoch (1919–1999) was an acclaimed British novelist and philosopher known for her deeply philosophical and psychologically complex novels. Her works, including The Sea, The Sea (which won the Booker Prize), Under the Net, and The Bell, explore themes of morality, love, and human nature. Murdoch’s unique blend of intellectual rigor and literary artistry makes her one of the most celebrated writers of the 20th century.