Ulysses by James Joyce (Book Analysis)

This practical and insightful reading guide offers a complete summary and analysis of Ulysses by James Joyce. It provides a thorough exploration of the novel’s plot, characters and main themes, including sexuality and society. The clear and concise style makes for easy understanding, providing the perfect opportunity to improve your literary knowledge in no time.

This clear and detailed 39-page reading guide is structured as follows:

• Biography of James Joyce
• Presentation of Ulysses
• Summary of Ulysses
• Character study
  • Stephen Dedalus (Telemachus)
  • Leopold Bloom (Ulysses)
  • Malachi Mulligan, known as ‘Buck’ (Antinous)
  • Marion Tweedy (Penelope)
  • The man in the macintosh
• Analysis of Ulysses
  • Allusions to Homer’s Odyssey
  • A generic and organic collection
  • Intertextuality
  • Epiphanies

About Ulysses

Ulysses was first published in 1922. It tells the story of two men, Stephen Dedalus, who is a representation of the author, and Meopold Bloom, who is trying to win back the love of his wife. It takes place over a single day in Dublin.

Although Ulysses now enjoys international renown, it was originally judged to be obscene by Joyce’s contemporaries. It was banned in the United States until 1931, although Ernest Hemingway circulated several copies. It is now Joyce’s most famous work and is appreciated for its detailed characterization, structure and experimental prose.

About James Joyce

James Joyce was an Irish writer who was born in Dublin in 1882. However, it was not long before he left his home country for good, unable to identify with a land which was so divided. He lived in several different places, including Paris and Italy. From 1906 onwards, he was afflicted by a series of eye problems which ultimately resulted in the need to wear an eyepatch.

Although Joyce was a very respected writer, he was misunderstood and did not enjoy a great deal of popularity while he was alive. He was acquainted with several great writers of his time, including Marcel Proust and Samuel Beckett. He died in Zurich in 1941.