Introduction

This introduction sets the scene for the understanding of the bidimensional connection created in the chapters of this volume first, between trauma, memory and silence, and on a second level, that of their relation with the contexts of the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland. Following a diachronic approach, here are described the most representative experiences of Irish women in the two Irelands always considering this triad, plus an overview of the literary production and trends in contemporary literature published by female voices from the late 1980s up to the present day on both sides of the border. This latter aspect here discussed might explain the success of these pieces of literature dealing with trauma, memory and silence, while justifying the creation of this project.