Name _____________________________
Motifs (a distinctive feature or dominant idea) in Dubliners:
Paralysis: Paralysis is mentioned in the first paragraph of the first story then reinforced and
alluded to in each story that follows. Joyce writes about figurative and literal paralysis being
the results of many different factors. Joyce specifically attributes them to the English
occupation of Ireland, the Catholic Church’s dominance in thought, custom, and behavior and
the conflict between the Catholics and Protestants.
Decay: Decay closely connects with paralysis in Dubliners. Joyce often uses the colors yellow
and brown as symbols to represent decay and paralysis. The two motifs eventually become
almost synonymous; however, the thought of decay is much more descriptive. It illustrates not
only a type of paralysis from moving, but also death, which is much more severe and
permanent. Decay is the result of paralysis.
Yellow
Brown
Paralysis
Decay
Any other symbols?
Themes
The effects of corruption: Corruption is emphasized through individual characters,
within the church, and the different social communities within Dublin. Effects of
corruption are directly related to the moral decay Joyce sees within humankind.
Attempt to embark on a journey or a quest: In many stories, a journey is taken. It
may be spiritual, emotional, or physical. The quests and journeys are often obvious
to the reader, but notice how nearly all of them are left incomplete or “paralyzed”
by specific events in the plot.
The art of discovery: The protagonist in each story makes some kind of discovery.
Whether the discovery is about the individual, others, or the surrounding world, it
may be a moment of clarity of even dread for the character.
Experiencing epiphanies: The discovery made typically leads to an epiphany, which
is an important revelation or discovery that changes a person’s outlook, opinion, or
understanding of life. For Joyce, epiphanies are spiritual changes that take place
within the individual; they typically carry negative connotations because the
realizations can involve a loss of innocence.
“Araby” “The Dead”
The effects of
Corruption
Attempt to embark on
a journey or quest
and the result
The art of discovery
Experiencing
epiphanies