Week 12: Nov. 2-6

Mon. Together class read a portion of "The Sisters" from Joyce's Dubliners. Introductory discussion revolved around Joyce's purpose. One way this can be framed is as an answer to the question "Who are Dubliners"? It should also be understood as a polemic against the culture of Dublin, and it's influences.

Tues. Classes read "The Sisters" out loud, with discussion of key words, characterization of the narrator, Nannie, Eliza and Fr. Flynn; the imagery of the boy's dream; the implications of the boy's reaction to Fr. Flynn's death; the suggestive imagery of the priest lying in his coffin; and other details in imagery which may have symbolic implications.

Wed. Discussion focused on the character of Fr. Flynn on three levels: as a character who has a relationship with the narrator, as a symbol for the Catholic Church in Ireland, and as an Irishman. Fr. Flynn's faith deserves scrutiny, both on a literal and a symbolic level.

Thurs. Small groups read the next story in Dubliners, titled "An Encounter". Groups were then to identify an image from the story which they found striking, then proceed to the discussion questions.

Fri. Whole class discussion of "An Encounter", a story which introduces a new theme, namely the desire to be somewhere/someone different. When a student notices a character in "escape mode," he/she should ask what motivates the desire? When did it start? How does the attempt progress? And What are the results?

Also, we reiterated the "Catholic motif", which Joyce employs both explicitly and subtly. Joyce's use of the motif suggests a strong opinion on the influence of the church (and its leaders) upon its followers. Today, the class examined Joyce's imagery in the latter part of the encounter, imagery which may suggest rituals of a Catholic mass. Given the nature of the so-called priest, it's not too hard to discern Joyce's contempt for the church.