Analysis

The analysis of the short story “The Sniper” by Liam O’Flaherty shows that it follows a linear, chronological plot structure. The events take place over the course of a few hours, and the action is fast and urgent.

The main character in the story is the sniper. Another important character is the enemy sniper. The two have an external conflict which ends in the death of the enemy sniper, when it is revealed that the two men might be brothers. 

The physical setting is a street in Dublin, Ireland, during the Irish Civil War. The entire action takes place over the course of a few hours on a summer day at the beginning of the conflict. The social setting deals with the effects of civil war.

The story is told from the point of view of a third-person narrator. The narrator gives us insight into the sniper’s thoughts and feelings, presenting things from his perspective. 

The language is casual and conversational, using common words and phrases. The short, fragmented sentences express a sense of urgency, creating a suspenseful atmosphere. 

You can read a more detailed analysis in the following pages.