Abstract

This research paper aims to deals with myth and classical references which
play a significant role in the development of the novel’s themes and symbolism.
These references are woven throughout the text, from the allusions to Daedalus
and Icarus in the opening pages, to the numerous biblical and musical references
scattered throughout. By drawing upon these myths and classics, Joyce creates a
complex narrative that explores the tension between individual identity and
societal expectations. The novel is divided into five sections, each of which is
marked by a significant shift in Stephen’s development. In the first section,
Stephen is a young boy growing up in an Irish Catholic family. Joyce uses myth
and classical references to subtly emphasize Stephen’s growing sense of
rebellion and individuality. For example, Daedalus and Icarus are referenced in
the opening pages of the novel, providing a metaphor for Stephen’s own
struggle to break free from the constraints of society and religion. Later in the
novel, as Stephen begins to discover his own artistic inspiration, the myth and
classical references take on a new significance.

IV
I. Introduction

The myth of Daedalus, a skilled craftsman and father of Icarus who

constructed wings for them to escape Crete, plays a major role in James Joyce's
novel, A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man. The myth greatly influences the
character development of Stephen Dedalus, who sees himself as a modern-day
Daedalus. Stephen, like Daedalus, has dreams of breaking free from social and
artistic constraints, creating his own path, and finding his true identity as an
artist. The myth serves as a symbol of this inner struggle for Stephen, as he aims
to break free from the limitations set by society and his religious upbringing.
The story of Daedalus also serves as an allegory for Stephen's journey to find
self-realization. Just as Daedalus had to navigate obstacles to create the wings
and escape, Stephen faces challenges in his pursuit of artistic self-expression.
He must learn to navigate the tension between his individual desires and the
expectations of his family and society.

Moreover, the tragedy of Icarus serves as a warning to Stephen about the

dangers of ignoring practicality and risking everything for artistic pursuits. This
serves as a cautionary tale for Stephen, who must learn to strike a balance
between his artistic vision and reality. The influence of the myth of Daedalus on
Stephen Dedalus' character development is profound. The story serves as a
symbol of Stephen's inner struggles, a warning of the dangers of ignoring
practicality and a metaphor for his journey towards self-realization. A key
aspect of Stephen Dedalus' character development in James Joyce's A Portrait
of the Artist as a Young Man is his religious experience. The story of Saint
Augustine, as told in his book Confessions, plays a significant role in shaping
Stephen's evolving beliefs.

1
I.I. Background to the Modernist Novel

A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man is a modernist novel that was

published in 1916. It follows the story of Stephen Dedalus, an Irishman who
seeks to become a writer and artist. The novel was written by James Joyce and
is considered to be one of the most significant works of modernist literature.
The modernist movement emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the
changes that were taking place in society. It rejected traditional literary styles
and instead focused on experimentation and innovation. The movement aimed
to break down the boundaries of traditional genres and create something new
and unique. Joyce's A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man is an excellent
example of this movement. The novel's style is full of experimentation, with
stream-of-consciousness narration, fragmented inner monologues, and complex
symbolism. It also incorporates several mythological and Classical references
that serve to show the influence of history and tradition on modernist literature
(Tsykynovska, 2013: 1).

Joyce employs a vast array of mythological and Classical references in A

Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man. These references refer to various cultures
such as Greek, Roman, and Irish, among others. Stephen’s thought process is
dominated by these references, making them a critical part of the plot. Some
examples of the Classical references in the novel include: (Boes, 2009: 27).

Overall, A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man is an intricate and complex

novel that incorporates several Classical and mythological references. These
references serve as a critical part of the plot and are essential in understanding
the novel's overall themes and messages. Joyce’s use of myth and Classical
references in A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man is an important part of the
novel's symbolism and meaning. The references help to illustrate Stephen’s

2
development as an artist and writer, as well as his struggle to break free from the
constraints of his Catholic upbringing and Irish culture. While Joyce
incorporates many Classical references, some of the most significant are
Daedalus, Icarus, and Dante. These figures serve as symbolic representations of
Stephen's own journey, his aspirations, and his eventual rebellion against
societal expectations. Moreover, Joyce also references several Irish myths, such
as the story of Cuchulainn and the legend of the Children of Lir. These tales
showcase the Irish cultural heritage and the role of myth and legend as a part of
the Irish national identity, as well as the power of storytelling to transform
individuals and society (Dale, 2008: 56).

3
I.II. Joyce as a Novelist

James Joyce was an Irish novelist, considered to be one of the most

influential and innovative modernist writers of the 20th century. He was born in
Dublin in 1882 and published several works throughout his lifetime, including
Dubliners (1914), A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man (1916), Ulysses
(1922), and Finnegans Wake (1939). Joyce's literary style was characterized by
his use of stream of consciousness narration, allusions to Irish history and
mythology, and experimentation of language. His works were often banned and
censored due to their controversial themes and frank depiction of sexuality.
Despite the controversy, Joyce's works have had a significant impact on the
literary world. His use of language and narrative techniques has been highly
influential on modernist and postmodernist writers. Ulysses, in particular, is
often praised as one of the greatest novels of the 20th century. Even today,
Joyce's works continue to captivate readers and inspire writers (Joyce, 1916:
42).

James Joyce was born in Dublin, Ireland in 1882. He was the eldest of ten
children and grew up in a family that valued education and literature. At a
young age, Joyce showed a natural aptitude for languages and eventually
became fluent in several. He attended Clongowes Wood College and Belvedere
College, two prestigious Catholic schools in Dublin. Later, he would attend
University College Dublin where he studied languages and literature. Joyce's
upbringing had a significant impact on his literary works, particularly his use of
Irish history and mythology. His father, John Joyce, was an avid collector of
books on Irish history and literature and frequently shared these with his
children. James Joyce was also heavily influenced by the political turmoil and
nationalistic sentiment of Ireland during his lifetime. These experiences would

4
later manifest in his literary works, where he often incorporated themes of Irish
nationalism and the struggle for independence (Joyce, 1959: 86)

Dubliners is a collection of short stories by James Joyce, first published in

1914. The stories depict various aspects of life in Dublin, Ireland during the
early 20th century. One of the major themes explored in Dubliners is the
oppressive social and political environment of Ireland during this period.
Freedom, paralysis, and epiphany are other recurring themes in the collection.
Joyce uses various symbols in the stories, such as birds, dust, and the color
brown, to convey these themes and create a layered narrative. The collection
comprises 15 stories, each with its unique take on the themes of Dubliners.
"Araby," for instance, is a coming-of-age tale that explores the themes of young
love and religious disillusionment. "Eveline" follows a young woman caught
between her responsibilities to her family and her desire for freedom. "The
Dead," the final and longest story in the collection, deals with the themes of
mortality and paralysis. It showcases Joyce's masterful use of imagery to create
a layered and haunting narrative. Overall, Dubliners remains a masterpiece of
modernist literature, exploring the complexities of Irish identity and the human
condition.

A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man is a semi-autobiographical novel

by James Joyce, published in 1916. The novel follows the life of Stephen
Dedalus, a young Irishman in the early 20th century who struggles with his
identity and artistic ambitions amidst the societal pressures of his time. Through
a series of vignettes, the reader witnesses Stephen's evolution from a young boy
to an aspiring artist. The novel also touches on themes such as religion,
education, and politics in Ireland during the early 20th century. One of the most
distinctive features of A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man is its use of a
stream-of-consciousness writing style. Joyce innovatively captures the interior

5
world of his protagonist through long, uninterrupted associative thoughts,
providing the reader with intimate insight into Stephen's mind and allows the
reader to experience life through Stephen's own consciousness. Although Joyces
was not the first to use this style, his particular use showcased his mastery of the
form. A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man remains a seminal modernist
work, and has had a profound influence on the trajectory of 20th-century
literature. James Joyce's Ulysses is a novel that chronicles the day in the life of
Leopold Bloom, an advertising canvasser, and Stephen Dedalus, an English
teacher. Set in Dublin, on June 16, 1904, Ulysses is a modernist masterpiece that
explores themes such as sexuality, religion, power, and identity. The novel
challenges the conventions of narrative structure and language, and its complex
structure reflects the complexity of modern life. Joyce's writing style in Ulysses
is highly experimental, characterized by the use of stream of consciousness
technique, which portrays the inner thoughts and emotions of the characters.
This radical style of writing was unprecedented at the time of publication and
marked Joyce as one of the most accomplished modernist writers. The result
was a work that challenged conventional narrative structures and brought a new
level of psychological depth to character development. Additionally, Joyce uses
elaborate wordplay, allusions, and references to literary traditions throughout
the novel, making Ulysses an intellectually stimulating work of art (Lemon,
1968: 212-13).

6
I.III. A Portrait of the Artist: An overview

'A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man' is a novel written by James Joyce.
The book follows the life of Stephen Dedalus from his childhood to young
adulthood. The novel is largely autobiographical and explores the protagonist’s
struggle with identity and the role of religion in his life. The book is divided
into five parts, each reflecting a different stage of Stephen’s life. Throughout the
novel, the themes of alienation, artistic expression, and the search for individual
identity are explored in detail. The title of the book, 'A Portrait of the Artist as a
Young Man', is significant because it highlights the coming-of-age story of the
protagonist. The book is more than just a biography of a young man, it is a
representation of an artist’s journey. Stephen Dedalus is portrayed as an artist
who struggles to find his individual identity and artistic expression. The book is
a portrait of his transformation into an artist and his growth into a young man.
The title hints at the book’s focus, which is on the artistic expression of the
protagonist and his journey of self-discovery (Tsykynovska, 2013: 3)

James Joyce was an Irish novelist and poet born in 1882 in Dublin, Ireland.
He started his education at Clongowes Wood College and later moved to
Belvedere College. He completed his degree from University College Dublin
where he was introduced to literary giants like Henrik Ibsen, Dante and Thomas
Aquinas. Joyce wrote several short stories before publishing his debut novel 'A
Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man' in 1916. His other famous works include
'Dubliners', 'Ulysses' and 'Finnegans Wake'. Joyce passed away in 1941 in
Zurich, Switzerland. Joyce is praised for his unique writing style, innovative
narrative techniques and his ability to capture the essence of modernism. His
works often include themes of identity, religion and the search for meaning. His
writing has influenced a whole generation of writers and is considered a major
contribution to literature. Joyce's works continue to inspire artistic

7
interpretations and have been adapted in various art forms like theatre, film,
music and visual arts. Joyce's impact on modern literature is unparalleled and
his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come (Lemon, 1968: 93).

Stephen Dedalus is the main character in James Joyce's 'A Portrait of the
Artist as a Young Man'. He is portrayed as a complex and dynamic individual,
who struggles to find his place in the world. From a young age, Stephen is
shown as being intelligent and thoughtful, but also rebellious and often at odds
with his family and society. As the story progresses, Stephen's character evolves
into a self-aware and self-determined artist who is determined to live life on his
own terms. Joyce's exploration of Stephen's character offers a unique insight
into the struggles of a young artist trying to find his place in the world.
Throughout the novel, Stephen embarks on a journey of self-discovery, which
he hopes will lead him to his true place in the world. He faces numerous
challenges, including poverty, religion, and societal expectations, but he remains
steadfast in his resolve to follow his heart. As he gains confidence in his own
abilities, Stephen becomes increasingly critical of the oppressive religious and
societal norms surrounding him. By the end of the novel, he has finally come to
a place of self-acceptance and has found his voice as an artist. Stephen's journey
towards self-discovery highlights the importance of finding one's own path in
life and standing up against oppressive societal norms (Venturino, 2013: 53)

Throughout the novel, James Joyce cleverly uses religious and cultural
symbols to highlight the oppressive nature of Irish society in the early 20th
century. Stephen is raised in a strict Catholic environment, and as such,
Christian symbolism is intertwined throughout the narrative. From the image of
the serpent in the opening chapter to the numerous references to the Holy Ghost,
Joyce uses these symbols to represent the repressive nature of religion in
Stephen's life. Additionally, Joyce employs cultural symbols such as Irish

8
nationalism to show how societal expectations limit Stephen's creative potential.
Another recurring symbol in the book is water, which represents both freedom
and entrapment for Stephen. The image of the sea in particular is repeatedly
associated with Stephen's desire for freedom and his artistic aspirations.
However, water is also used to convey a sense of entrapment, such as when
Stephen is threatened with drowning by his peers. The dual nature of water as
both freeing and dangerous embodies Stephen's complex journey of
self-discovery and the challenges he must overcome to live life on his own
terms (Barry, 2002: 64).

In 'A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man,' Joyce utilizes the stream of
consciousness style of writing to convey Stephen's innermost thoughts and
feelings. The reader is taken on a journey through Stephen's mind, with
seemingly random and disjointed thoughts representing the complexity of his
identity and experiences. This narrative style allows for a deep exploration of
Stephen's character that goes beyond surface-level actions and dialogue. Joyce's
multi-layered structure in the book adds to its complexity and depth. The
narrative is divided into five chapters, each representing a different stage in
Stephen's development. The structure allows for a more nuanced exploration of
Stephen's character, as the reader is presented with different aspects of his life
and experiences. Additionally, Joyce incorporates a variety of literary
techniques, such as allusions and symbolism, that add depth to the narrative and
enhance its meaning. The multi-layered structure of the book creates a rich and
layered narrative that continues to captivate readers today (Dale, 2008: 86)

9
II. Mythology and Classical in the Text

In A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, Joyce employs mythology to

explore the theme of dualism, which is the concept of two opposing forces or
ideas existing simultaneously. This duality is reflected in various aspects of
Stephen's character and journey, as he grapples with conflicting desires, beliefs,
and identities. By drawing on mythological references, Joyce provides a rich
tapestry of symbols and allusions that deepen the reader's understanding of
Stephen's internal struggles (Tsykynovska, 2017, p. 78). One prominent
mythological element in the novel is the Greek myth of Daedalus and Icarus.
Daedalus, a skilled craftsman, constructs wings for himself and his son, Icarus,
enabling them to escape their imprisonment. However, Icarus, overcome by
hubris, flies too close to the sun, causing his wings to melt, and he plummets to
his death. This myth serves as a metaphor for Stephen's own desire for freedom
and artistic expression. Like Daedalus, Stephen seeks to escape the constraints
of society and conventional norms, aspiring to soar to great heights. However,
his pursuit of artistic individuality is fraught with risks, and he must navigate
the fine line between ambition and self-destruction (Boes, 2009, p. 28).

Another significant mythological reference in the novel is the story of the

phoenix, a mythical bird that is reborn from its own ashes. This symbolizes the
cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. Stephen, too, undergoes a
transformative journey throughout the novel, shedding his old self and emerging
as an artist (Barry, 2002, p. 112). The phoenix represents the potential for
renewal and regeneration, as Stephen strives to create a new identity for
himself, free from the constraints of his upbringing and societal expectations.
Additionally, Joyce incorporates biblical imagery and references to further
explore the theme of dualism. The story of the prodigal son, for instance,
parallels Stephen's own journey of self-discovery and rebellion against his

10
conservative Catholic upbringing. Like the prodigal son, Stephen leaves his
family and homeland in search of personal and artistic fulfillment. However, he
also experiences a profound sense of guilt and longing for the familiar,
highlighting the conflict between his desires for freedom and his sense of duty
and obligation (Dale, 2008, p. 202).

Furthermore, Joyce's use of mythology extends beyond individual characters

and events, permeating the very structure and style of the novel. The narrative
itself follows a cyclical pattern, mirroring the concept of the eternal return found
in many mythological traditions. This cyclical structure reinforces the theme of
dualism, as Stephen repeatedly grapples with conflicting emotions and choices
throughout his life (Lemon, 1968, p. 44)

II.I. Myth of Daedalus Aristotle

Aristotle, a prominent figure in ancient Greek philosophy, held a strong

belief in the power of storytelling as a means of imparting moral and
philosophical lessons. In his Poetics, Aristotle outlined the principles of
effective tragedy, emphasizing the importance of plot, character, and catharsis.
According to Aristotle, a successful tragedy should adhere to a well-structured
plot with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Additionally, the characters should
be relatable and possess qualities that evoke empathy in the audience. Finally,
the tragedy should evoke catharsis, a purging of emotions that leaves the
audience with a sense of emotional release and understanding (Tsykynovska,
2017, p. 83). Applying Aristotle's principles to Joyce's A Portrait of the Artist as
a Young Man, one can see why some critics argue that the novel falls short in
terms of traditional storytelling. Joyce's narrative is fragmented and nonlinear,
often jumping between different time periods and perspectives. The protagonist,
Stephen Dedalus, undergoes a series of transformations throughout the novel,

11
making it difficult for readers to establish a stable sense of character.
Furthermore, the novel lacks a traditional climax or resolution, leaving readers
with a sense of ambiguity and open-endedness (Dale, 2008, p. 211).

However, it is precisely in these departures from traditional storytelling

that Joyce's use of myth becomes apparent. Rather than adhering to a linear plot
structure, Joyce weaves together various mythological references and allusions
to create a rich tapestry of meaning. The use of myth allows Joyce to explore
complex themes such as identity, religion, and artistry in a way that transcends
traditional narrative conventions (Barry, 2002, p. 126). By incorporating myth
into his novel, Joyce challenges the notion that storytelling must adhere to a
strict formula, opening up new possibilities for the exploration of human
experience. One of the most striking aspects of Joyce's use of myth in A Portrait
of the Artist as a Young Man is his blending of ancient Greek mythology with
Christian symbolism (Lemon, 1968, p. 67). Throughout the novel, Joyce draws
upon the stories of Daedalus, Icarus, and the Fall of Adam and Eve to illuminate
Stephen's journey of self-discovery and artistic awakening. By juxtaposing these
mythological and religious narratives, Joyce creates a tension between the
classical ideals of freedom and individuality and the constraints imposed by
religious doctrine (Tyson, 2006, p. 103).

This tension is exemplified in the character of Stephen Dedalus himself,

who embodies both the rebellious spirit of the Greek mythological figure
Daedalus and the guilt and sin associated with the biblical Adam. As Stephen
grapples with his own desires, ambitions, and sense of self, he is torn between
the pursuit of artistic freedom and the moral obligations imposed by his
Catholic upbringing (Boes, 2009, p. 106). Through the use of myth, Joyce
explores the complexities of human nature and the inherent struggle between
individuality and conformity. Furthermore, Joyce's use of myth in A Portrait of

12
the Artist as a Young Man serves to challenge traditional notions of gender and
sexuality. The myth of Icarus, for example, is often associated with male
ambition and hubris. However, Joyce subverts this traditional interpretation by
presenting Stephen as a young man who is not driven by arrogance or a desire
for power, but rather by a longing for self-expression and authenticity. By
reimagining the myth of Icarus through the lens of Stephen's artistic journey,
Joyce challenges societal expectations and stereotypes surrounding masculinity
and offers a more nuanced understanding of the human experience (Tyson,
2006, p. 129).

II.II. Thomas Aquinas

Thomas Aquinas, a prominent philosopher and theologian of the thirteenth

century, held a critical view of myth, perceiving it as a distortion of truth and a
hindrance to rational understanding. Aquinas championed the use of reason and
logic as the primary tools for comprehending the world, emphasizing the
importance of empirical evidence and logical deductions. In his work, Summa
Theologica, Aquinas argues that myth, as a form of imaginative storytelling,
often deviates from reality and can mislead individuals, obscuring the truth
rather than illuminating it (Tsykynovska, 2017, p. 88). Joyce's A Portrait of the
Artist as a Young Man, published in 1916, follows the protagonist, Stephen
Dedalus, as he navigates his formative years and grapples with questions of
identity, religion, and artistic expression. Throughout the novel, Joyce
incorporates various mythological references, drawing from Greek, Christian,
and Irish folklore. These references serve as a means of exploring Stephen's
internal struggles and external influences, providing a multidimensional
perspective on his journey towards self-realization (Barry, 2002, p. 128).

13
 Aquinas' critique of myth in literature raises questions about the potential
dangers of relying on mythological narratives. He argues that myths often
present fictional or exaggerated accounts of events, blurring the line between
fact and fiction. As a result, individuals may be led astray, mistaking these
imaginative narratives for reality. Aquinas asserts that the use of myth in
literature can undermine the pursuit of truth and rational understanding,
hindering intellectual growth and fostering a distorted perception of the world
(Dale, 2008, p. 125). In A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, Joyce's use of
myth challenges Aquinas' concerns by employing mythological references as a
means of exploring complex themes and emotions. Rather than presenting
myths as objective truths, Joyce utilizes them as symbolic tools to convey the
subjective experiences and psychological states of his characters. By weaving
mythological motifs into the narrative, Joyce invites readers to engage in a
deeper exploration of the human condition and the complexities of the human
psyche (Lemon, 1968, p. 72).

One of the mythological references in Joyce's novel is the story of

Daedalus and Icarus from Greek mythology. Daedalus, a skilled craftsman,
constructs wings for himself and his son, Icarus, enabling them to escape
imprisonment. However, Icarus, overcome by hubris, flies too close to the sun,
causing his wings to melt and leading to his tragic demise. This myth serves as a
metaphor for Stephen's own journey of self-discovery and artistic pursuit. Like
Daedalus, Stephen seeks to escape the confines of his upbringing and societal
expectations, striving to soar to new heights (Boes, 2009, p. 112). However, he
must also be cautious not to succumb to the same fate as Icarus, risking his own
destruction through excessive pride and reckless abandon. Aquinas' critique of
myth would argue that Joyce's use of the Daedalus and Icarus myth could
potentially mislead readers, obscuring the reality of Stephen's experiences
(Barry, 2002, p. 130). However, Joyce's intention is not to present a factual

14
account but rather to evoke emotional and psychological resonance within the
reader. By drawing upon myth, Joyce taps into a collective cultural
consciousness, utilizing archetypal symbols and narratives that resonate with
readers on a deeper, subconscious level. The myth serves as a vehicle for
exploring universal themes and experiences, transcending the limitations of
individual perspectives (Venturino, 2013, p. 66).

In addition to Greek mythology, Joyce also incorporates Christian

symbolism and Irish folklore into the narrative. These mythological references
further enrich the novel's exploration of identity, spirituality, and cultural
heritage. Aquinas' critique would argue that these references may confuse
readers and hinder their ability to discern reality from fiction (Dale, 2008, p.
133). However, Joyce's purpose is not to present a factual account of religious
or cultural history but rather to explore the complexities of human existence
through a variety of lenses. By intertwining mythological motifs, Joyce creates a
layered narrative that reflects the intricacies of Stephen's internal struggles and
external influences (Tyson, 2006, p. 174).

15
III. Conclusion

In conclusion, James Joyce's A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man is a

complex and multi-layered novel that incorporates various mythological and
classical references to explore the development of the protagonist's artistic
consciousness and his struggle for self-realization. Through the use of these
references, Joyce not only enriches the narrative but also adds depth and
meaning to the themes and motifs present in the novel. The incorporation of
myth and classical allusions serves to highlight the universal nature of the
protagonist's journey and the timeless struggle of the artist in society.
Throughout the novel, Joyce skillfully weaves together a tapestry of
mythological and classical references, drawing upon various sources such as
Greek mythology, Christian symbolism, and Irish folklore. These references
serve as a framework for understanding the protagonist's journey from a young
boy confined by societal expectations to a liberated artist who embraces his
individuality and rejects the constraints of tradition. By drawing parallels
between Stephen Dedalus and mythological figures such as Daedalus and
Icarus, Joyce emphasizes the transformative nature of the artistic process and
the inherent risks and dangers associated with it.

One of the central mythological references in the novel is the story of

Daedalus and Icarus. Daedalus, a skilled craftsman and inventor, represents the
artist figure who seeks to transcend the limitations of his society through his
creativity. In A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, Stephen Dedalus is
portrayed as a modern-day Daedalus, constantly striving to break free from the
confines of his Irish Catholic upbringing and the oppressive social and political
climate of early 20th-century Ireland (Barry, 2002, p. 144). Like Daedalus,
Stephen uses his artistic talents as a means of escape, creating his own wings of
imagination and intellect in order to soar above the constraints of his

16
environment. However, just as in the myth, the pursuit of artistic freedom is not
without its dangers. Icarus, the son of Daedalus, represents the reckless
ambition and hubris that can lead to downfall. Stephen's journey towards
self-realization is fraught with obstacles and temptations, as he grapples with
conflicting desires and societal pressures. His encounters with religion,
nationalism, and sexuality serve as tests of his artistic integrity and his ability to
stay true to his own vision. Through these trials, Joyce explores the tension
between the individual and society, and the sacrifices that must be made in order
to achieve true artistic freedom.

17
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v075/74.4.boes.html>
C. Dale, R. (2008). How to Interpret Literature. 4th ed. Critical theory for
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E. _____, J. (1959). The Critical Writings. Ellsworth Masonand & Richard
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