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Darby O’Gill and the Good People · Theme

Fear and Courage

How Darby O’Gill and the Good People develops Fear and Courage.

Darby displays both reckless courage in confronting fairies and deep fear of supernatural entities like the banshee and ghosts, illustrating that bravery often coexists with terror, and that facing one's fears is a recurring challenge.

Where it surfaces

  • The Fairies

    The opening lines express the fear of hunting near fairy dwellings, emphasizing the community's caution and dread of the 'little men.'

  • Darby O’Gill and the Good People

    Darby shows courage in confronting Sheelah Maguire and the fairy king, facing supernatural threats without succumbing to fear.

  • Darby O’Gill and the Good People

    Darby's boldness in confronting the fairies and the terror of the community during the fairy siege illustrate the theme of courage in the face of supernatural fear.

  • The King and the Omadhaun

    Darby refuses to help the King out of fear of being captured again, while Maureen shows courage in pleading for the omadhaun.

  • The Banshee’s Comb

    Darby and Cormac's reactions to the banshee highlight themes of fear and bravery in the face of the supernatural.

  • II

    Darby's fear of the supernatural and the storm is overcome by his wife's manipulation, leading him to reluctantly face his fears.

  • II: The Banshee's Halloween

    Darby overcomes his terror of the banshee and the storm, drawing on faith and a sense of duty to perform a courageous act.

  • I

    Darby struggles with fear of the banshee and ghosts, but finds courage through the memory of his wife's words and the advice of Peggy O'Callaghan.

  • II

    Darby overcomes his terror of the banshee and the broken bridge to save Cormac, demonstrating bravery in the face of supernatural danger.

  • III: The Ghosts at Chartre’s Mill

    Darby's terror at the ghosts and his desperate cry for help contrast with the courage he musters to call upon the fairies, illustrating the balance between fear and bravery.

  • IV: The Costa Bower

    Darby overcomes his fear of the banshee with the King's support, learning that a cool look at trouble reduces dread.

  • I

    Darby battles fear of ghosts and the banshee, yet resolves to return the comb.

  • II

    Darby's initial bravery evaporates when faced with the unknown darkness and the death-coach, but he finds courage through the King's presence and direct confrontation.