How does James Joyce portray religion in Dubliners?

• Catholicism was the main religion in Ireland
• In 17th-18th century the English tried to stamp out Catholicism
• Catholicism is woven into the daily lives of the Dubliners
• The local priest was a key figure in people's daily lives

History of Religion in Dublin

History of Religion in Dublin

• The political turmoil at the end of the 19th century lead more people to question the actions of the Catholic Church
• Nationalists thought that the Catholic Church was hindering the Nationalist cause by withdrawing support from its leader, Charles Stewart Parnell

James Joyce and Religion

• Joyce was educated by Jesuits
• Jesuit establishments had strict rules, and education was rigorous
• As he got older he began to question his faith and stopped following religious practises
• He resented the church's strict rules and teaching

James Joyce and Religion

• Joyce believed that the church was forcing intelligent students to become priests instead of performing other important jobs
• Joyce did not object to the concept of faith and worship in general
• Personal letters show that he continued to attend Catholic Mass as well as Orthodox services