In Translations Friel creates a play which is enriched by the use of classical language and themes, mush of which come from myth and legend. The process by which this interacts with the present day reality of Baile Beag is used throughout the play to draw parallels linking these characters with mythological past and their equally dubious future.

The character of Jimmy Jack is presented as one which is metaphorically stuck in the past. He is `fluent in Greek and Latin' despite what appears to be a very humble upbringing but it is obvious that as he is `in no way pedantic' he engages in the learning of the classics purely for the happiness and escapism it brings him which Friel describes as `profound satisfaction.' The delusional nature of this character is also made apparent in his introduction, as he believes the world of ancient myths to...