A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man
James Joyce
Contains spoilers for the entire book.
Discussion topics
Topic 01 of 08
Moocow
How does the opening, told in a child's language, set up the whole novel?
Keep the conversation going
- How does the language grow with Stephen?
- What did you notice first about the world he's born into?
There is no single right answer. Bring your own reading.
Discussion topics
How does the opening, told in a child's language, set up the whole novel?
Keep the conversation going
- How does the language grow with Stephen?
- What did you notice first about the world he's born into?
What does Stephen learn from the unjust pandying at Clongowes, and from going to the rector?
Keep the conversation going
- How does he see authority afterwards?
- Is this his first act of rebellion?
What does the argument over Parnell at Christmas dinner show Stephen about Ireland?
Keep the conversation going
- Who did you side with, Dante or Mr Casey?
- How does the scene shape his view of politics and the Church?
How did you react to the retreat sermon on hell, and to Stephen's terror?
Keep the conversation going
- Why does it work on him so strongly?
- Is his piety afterwards sincere?
Why does Stephen turn down the priesthood?
Keep the conversation going
- What does the director's offer tempt him with?
- What does he choose instead?
What does Stephen see in the girl wading on the strand?
Keep the conversation going
- Why is that moment a turning point?
- What does beauty mean to him?
What does Stephen mean by refusing to serve home, fatherland or church?
Keep the conversation going
- Is his independence courage or arrogance?
- What does his friendship with Cranly show about him?
What do you make of the diary entries at the end, as Stephen prepares to leave Ireland?
Keep the conversation going
- What does he hope to forge 'in the smithy of my soul'?
- Do you think he will succeed?
There is no single right answer. Bring your own reading.