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Master Boyle is a local teacher. He is gradually revealed by his own dialogue and Private’s commentary to be a self-interested alcoholic.

Although Boyle initially turns up to say goodbye to Gar, he mostly talks about himself. He even makes up a “big post in Boston, head of education in a reputable university there”, that he has been offered.

Private’s sympathetic “Poor bastard” suggests that Gar knows this is a lie.

Then when leaving - “His tongue out for a drink” according to Madge - he announces that “I seem to have come without my wallet” and asks Gar if he can borrow some money.

Like many of the other characters Boyle seems to have a life of regret and disappointment.

The suggestion that he was in love with Gar’s mother, and his advice to Gar to “Forget Ballybeg and Ireland” - something which he has never had the opportunity or courage to do himself - make him a tragic character despite his flaws.

He is the only male character to actually admit to Gar that “I’ll - I’ll miss you, Gar.” His show of emotion seems to affect Gar as we see Private convincing Public after Boyle has left, “Remember - you’re going!”