Irish Studies in Cyprus

Abstract

This paper assesses the current state of Irish Studies in Cyprus and looks forward to possible ways this might be improved. The historical parallels between the islands of Ireland and Cyprus suggest a fertile ground for possible cultural exchanges, but it is argued that the educational and social conditions in Cyprus mitigate against this to a great degree. The issue of Ireland acting as a post-colonial paradigm for locations such as Cyprus – itself a former British Colony – is central to an understanding of the problems and possibilities facing the wider dissemination of Irish culture and literature beyond the currently recognised centres of Irish Studies within Europe.