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 Author: James Joyce

 Published: "Eveline" was first published in 1904 as part of Joyce's collection of short
stories, "Dubliners." The collection itself was published in 1914.

 Genre: Short story, Modernist literature

 Setting: The story is set in Dublin, Ireland, reflecting Joyce's preoccupation with his
hometown and its residents.

 Narrative Style:

 The story is written in the third person, primarily from the perspective of the
protagonist, Eveline.

 Joyce's writing style in "Eveline" is characteristic of his Modernist approach,


marked by intricate language and stream-of-consciousness elements.

 Themes:

 Paralysis: The story explores the theme of psychological and emotional


paralysis, reflecting the stagnation and inertia of the characters' lives.

 Escape and Entrapment: Eveline grapples with the desire to escape her
stifling, mundane life but is also held back by familial duties and a sense of
duty.

 Family and Duty: The obligations and responsibilities towards family are
central themes, illustrating the impact of familial ties on individual choices.

 Characters:

 Eveline: The protagonist of the story, a young woman torn between her desire
for escape and her responsibilities to her family.

 Father: A controlling and authoritative figure in Eveline's life, contributing to


the sense of duty that binds her.

 Frank: Eveline's love interest, representing the potential for a new life and
adventure.

 Symbolism:

 The Sea: The sea is a powerful symbol in the story, representing both the
allure of the unknown and the fear of change. It symbolizes the possibility of
escape and a new life.

 Dust: Dust is mentioned as a symbol of stagnation and decay, emphasizing the


dullness and inertia in Eveline's life.

 Key Plot Points:

 Eveline reflects on her life, her deceased mother, and her oppressive
relationship with her father.

 She contemplates leaving with Frank, her lover, who offers her a chance at a
new life in Buenos Aires.
 In the end, Eveline hesitates at the dock, torn between the desire for freedom
and the fear of the unknown.

 Legacy:

 "Eveline" is a notable example of Joyce's exploration of the "paralysis" theme,


a recurring motif in his works.

 It is considered a representative work of Modernist literature, showcasing


Joyce's innovative narrative techniques and psychological insight.

"Eveline" is a poignant exploration of the complexities of decision-making, the impact of


familial ties, and the struggle for personal freedom within the constraints of a stifling
environment.

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