‘Mea Culpa’ is a study in jealousy. The eldest of four young children, Peggy (13), has taken it upon herself to play the ‘wife’ of the household since the death of her Mother. By nature an introverted, serious child, Peggy basks in the affection of her Father, Daniel, whom she adores. Living in an isolated, rural spot, her world, and the world of her family, are protected and sheltered from outside involvement. Peggy feels safe and important, adult even. But a new arrival to the local community, Julie, a young teacher, threatens to usurp Peggy’s place in the household through her budding relationship with Daniel. Unable to voice the growing intensity of her feelings, Peggy finally ousts her ‘rival’ in an eerie and violent conclusion.
Ireland
