Ontological Issues

Before Columba decided to go into voluntary exile in Iona, he was in line to inherit the title of Chieftain of Tirconaill. He was born in a time where he was raised to be a warrior to protect his lands. However, Columba gives up his privileged life to find his soul's salvation. While living in voluntary exile as a monk, he is unable to cut his strong attachment to his people and Ireland. Divide between monk and warrior, Columba finds himself going back and forth between Iona and Tirconaill. Columba's longing to return home versus his desire to remain a dutiful monk contributes to Columba's inner struggle; discovering his identity away from his kinsmen.

Columba attempts to be the best monk he can, yet he eventually fails to truly reach the enlightenment sought by missionaries. Columba's natural strength and agility prevent him from completely letting go of his military past and his love of Ireland. While he asserts his desire to distance himself from his past, Columba is continually tested and fails. Because he is unable to fully throw off his tribal ties, Columba is unable to fully construct his monastic identity.

The inner struggle of Columba is evident throughout the play. The source of his internal chaos is the struggle for his own self-identity. His inner demons threaten to take him away from his duty at the monastery, and push him towards his dear Ireland and clan. Within himself he is haunted by his demons, and his "enemy within" shines through in his words and actions.