A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man

Synopsis

'Once upon a time and a very good time it was there was a moocow coming down along the road and this moocow that was coming down along the road met a nicens little boy named baby tuckoo ' So begins one of the most significant literary works of the twentieth century, and one of the most innovative. Its originality shocked contemporary readers on its publication in 1916 who found its treating of the minutiae of daily life indecorous, and its central character unappealing. Was it art or was it filth? The novel charts the intellectual, moral, and sexual development of Stephen Dedalus, from his childhood listening to his father's stories through his schooldays and adolescence to the brink of adulthood and independence, and his awakening as an artist. Growing up in a Catholic family in Dublin in the final years of the nineteenth century, Stephen's consciousness is forged by Irish history and politics, by Catholicism and culture, language and art. Stephen's story mirrors that of Joyce himself, and the novel is both startlingly realistic and brilliantly crafted. For this edition Jeri Johnson, editor of the acclaimed Ulysses 1922 text, has written an introduction and notes which together provide a comprehensive and illuminating appreciation of Joyce's artistry. ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.

Summary

Chapter 1

* Summary: Introduces Stephen Dedalus, a sensitive and introspective boy who attends Clongowes Wood College. He experiences childhood innocence, fear, and a sense of alienation from his peers.
* Real Example: Stephen's encounter with a classmate named Heron reflects his imaginative nature and sense of isolation. He becomes fascinated by Heron's physical appearance and mannerisms, seeing in him both a source of admiration and a reminder of his own differences.

Chapter 2

* Summary: Stephen's family financial situation worsens, and he is sent to Belvedere College. He begins to explore religion and spirituality, but his doubts and skepticism grow.
* Real Example: Stephen's encounter with the Jesuit priest, Father Flynn, initially inspires him, but he later experiences a sense of disillusionment when he overhears Flynn seeking comfort from a young boy.

Chapter 3

* Summary: Stephen becomes increasingly rebellious and independent. He develops a crush on the Irish nationalist Emma Clery and begins to explore the idea of becoming an artist.
* Real Example: Stephen's visit to the National Library of Ireland exposes him to a wider range of literature and ideas. He reads the works of Swinburne and Yeats, which ignite his artistic aspirations.

Chapter 4

* Summary: Stephen's intellectual and artistic growth continues. He engages in passionate debates with his classmates and writes erotic poetry.
* Real Example: Stephen's encounter with the prostitute Eileen Vance (based on the real-life Nora Barnacle) awakens in him both physical desire and a sense of the fragility of human existence.

Chapter 5

* Summary: Stephen experiences a spiritual crisis and considers joining the priesthood. However, he ultimately rejects this path and decides to leave Ireland for Paris to pursue his artistic dreams.
* Real Example: Stephen's confession to the priest reflects his struggle with guilt and the search for meaning. He acknowledges his sins, including his physical encounters with Eileen Vance, but ultimately asserts his independence from the Church.