59 pages • 1 hour read
A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man
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Book Brief
329
Novel • Fiction
Ireland • Early 20th century
1916
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man follows Stephen Dedalus as he grows up in Ireland at the end of the 19th century, experiencing educational, political, and artistic awakenings that shape his identity. From strict Jesuit schooling and religious tension to a struggle with faith and eventual artistic enlightenment, Stephen's journey depicts his increasing alienation and desire to leave Ireland for his artistic dreams. The novel addresses corporal punishment and intense religious influence.
Contemplative
Melancholic
Mysterious
Challenging
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
158,793 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
James Joyce's A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man is celebrated for its innovative stream-of-consciousness style and deep exploration of identity and self-discovery. While some readers find the prose challenging and complex, many appreciate the novel's rich symbolism and profound insights into the protagonist's psyche.
Who Should Read A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man?
A reader who enjoys modernist literature, deep psychological insights, and intricate narrative techniques would appreciate James Joyce's A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man. Fans of Virginia Woolf’s To the Lighthouse or Marcel Proust’s In Search of Lost Time would find similar intellectual and artistic explorations.
158,793 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Simon Dedalus
Simon Dedalus
Stephen’s father, who provides Stephen with an early understanding of the world through stories but also struggles with financial mismanagement and nostalgia.
Emma Clery
Emma Clery
A distant love interest of Stephen, characterized by her elusive presence in his life, inspiring him to write poetry and sparking complex romantic idealism.
Cranly
Cranly
Stephen’s friend and confidant, who, with emotional intelligence, provides Stephen with a platform to discuss his ideas about art, religion, and personal challenges.
329
Novel • Fiction
Ireland • Early 20th century
1916
Adult
18+ years
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