Introduction

Abstract

Nick Enright's 'Good Works' is a savage play about families and friendships. It considers questions of loyalty, betrayal and the real meaning of goodness. The action of the play explores the relationship between two young men, Tim and Shane, and the friendship between their mothers, Mary Margaret and Rita. 'Good Works' is compelling in its exploration of sexuality in both generations and the pressure to conform imposed by authority figures on all of the characters. Its rapidly paced shifts in time and place create dramatic tension, a dynamic energy in the play and an ingenious sharpness of focus on the moral questions that infuse the drama.