Through My Eyes, In My Words:

The Land and Landscape of Ireland

Taught by Joseph J. Martin, associate professor emeritus of English, and Jack Truten, visiting assistant professor of English

Maureen Jackson of Yokosuka, Japan, is a Marquis Scholar majoring in mathematics. A member of the leadership team of the Lafayette Christian Fellowship, she is a photographer for the college newspaper, The Lafayette. Last year she participated in the International Students Association’s annual ISA Extravaganza.

By Maureen Jackson '06

Reading a textbook, listening to lectures, participating in discussions, and looking at pictures are reasonable ways to learn about Irish history, but on our trip to Ireland, I had an amazing opportunity to piece together the past by actually visiting places where historically significant events, both large and small, occurred. It was the first time history was really tangible for me, and I appreciated the experience because I was able to connect facts I had learned into a more holistic picture.

During the three weeks we took a whirlwind tour of the country, traveling to a new city practically every day, visiting castles, round towers, cathedrals, museums, and ruins of monasteries and abbeys. It was neat to see first-hand the richness of Irish history and culture, and how beautifully it is maintained through these old structures.

The course was also a good opportunity for me because it allowed me to connect with my own history. My great-grandmother was from Ireland, and I had never seen where she was from. I also appreciated the chance to explore a subject very different from my own major and found that I enjoyed it much more than I had expected. And since my senior year of high school I have really enjoyed photography, but have not done much to develop that artistic ability. This trip renewed my passion for it.

My favorite place was the Cliffs of Moher, perhaps because we visited on one of the only days when it didn’t rain, but more likely because the view was absolutely gorgeous and displayed a glimpse of God’s radiant beauty. I especially liked lying down at the edge of the cliff and looking straight down 700 feet (I guess I’m not afraid of heights!). I really enjoyed going to the theater in Dublin to see “The Shaughraun.” We were privileged to be in Cork during celebrations announcing the city as European Capital of Culture for 2005.

Live Irish music was a treat, along with all little aspects of culture that we encountered. My roommate and I often went exploring and even visited an art gallery. We met many friendly Irish people as we stopped frequently to ask for directions. Bus rides were a great time to take in the beauty of the Irish landscape, in all its greenness.

I had an awesome first trip to Europe and I very much enjoyed the three weeks with my classmates and professors in a unique setting. This is definitely an experience I never would have had on my own. Now I know much more about Irish history and have a much greater appreciation for it. (The math major in me wonders, how many potatoes did I eat there? Too many!)