The Boarding House (James Joyce)

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES
JOYCE)
CONTENTS
1. Author’s biography
2. Brief introduction
3. Plot summary
4. Setting
5. Point of view
6. Character analysis
7. Themes
8. Figurative languages
9. Students’ response
10. Others
1. AUTHOR’S BIOGRAPHY
THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 1

JAMES JOYCE (1882 - 1941)
Full name: James Augustine Aloysius Joyce
An Irish novelist and poet
A key contributor to the modernist avant-garde literary movement
One of the most influential and innovative writers of the 20th century noted for his use of
stream-of-consciousness in his writing
Focal topics:
The Church and Religion
Dublin and Irish politics
1.1 Life Events

February 2, 1882: James Joyce was born in Rathgar, a suburb of Dublin

1888: first enrolled at Clongowes Wood College, and then attended Belvedere College and
University College in Dublin
1902: left Ireland to pursue a medical education in Paris
1903: met Nora Barnacle – his future wife

1904: moved to Rome and Italy with Nora and taught English there → had two children
1914: moved his family to Zurich, Switzerland due to World War I

1919: moved to Paris
1928: got married to Nora in London

1940: returned to Zurich due to World War II
January 13, 1941: passed away at the age of 59
1.2 Literary Works

Chamber Music (1907)
Dubliners (1914)
A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man (1916)
Exiles (1918)
Ulysses (1918)
Pomes Penyeach (1927)
Finnegans Wake (1939)
Stephen Hero (1944)
1.3 Accomplishments
1934: Joyce was named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Important People of the 20th
Century.
His writing influenced other famous writers like Ernest Hemingway (1897-1962) and
William Faulkner (1899-1961).
1999: Two of Joyce’s novels were on the list of the 100 most notable novels of the century
ranked by the Modern Library.

2. BRIEF INTRODUCTION
one of the landmark texts of modernist literature
published in 1914
one of the fifteen short stories that make up James Joyce’s larger collection, Dubliners
offers a more traditional yet poignant examination of the human condition
interrogates social class and how women and men navigated their status, as well as reflects
the culture of Dublin in the early 1900s
3. PLOT SUMMARY
Mrs. Mooney was the daughter of a butcher and she married the son of her father’s boss
(exposition). After her father’s death, Mr. Mooney grew into an alcoholic and tried to attack her
with a meat cleaver. After that, Mrs. Mooney got permission from the priest to separate from her
husband. With the money she took from the marriage, she invested in setting up a boarding house
in Hardwicke Street, that hosted artists and tourists from Liverpool, from the Isle of Man. Mrs.
Mooney had a son, Jack, and a daughter, Polly. Polly was nineteen years old, before she was a
typist in a grain merchant's office, but later her mother decided that Polly would work at the
Boarding House. Here Polly met Mr. Doran, a regular guest of the house, and she got pregnant
out of wedlock (rising action). Mrs. Mooney discovered this and decided to talk with Mr. Doran
to convince him to marry Polly (climax). Mr. Doran was very anxious. He isn't sure whether he
loves or even likes Polly, and he feels his family would look down on her, but he’s terrified by
the prospect of losing his job or his reputation if word of the relationship gets out (conflict).
Polly was lying on the bed and had been called by her mother because Mr. Doran wanted to talk
with her (conclusion).
Conflicts:
Man vs. Himself:
Mr. Doran: his desire for companionship >< his sense of duty and responsibility
Despite feeling trapped in his engagement with Polly, he also fears the repercussions of
breaking off the relationship.
⇒ Illustrate the complexity of human emotions and the internal battles individuals face when
confronted with difficult decisions.

Mr. Doran grapples with internal conflict throughout the story. He is torn between his desire for
companionship and his sense of duty and responsibility. Despite feeling trapped in his
engagement to Polly, he also fears the repercussions of breaking off the relationship. His internal
struggle reflects the tension between personal desires and moral obligations, illustrating the
complexity of human emotions and the internal battles individuals face when confronted with
difficult decisions.
Man vs. Man:
Mrs. Mooney strategically orchestrates Polly's engagement with Mr. Doran, leveraging his
fear of scandal and societal judgment to compel him into marriage.
⇒ Underscores the imbalance of power between the two characters and the exploitation of
vulnerability for personal gain.
Mr. Doran's reluctance to defy Mrs. Mooney's expectations
⇒ Highlight the conflict between individual agency and external influence.

The relationship between Mrs. Mooney and Mr. Doran is characterized by subtle manipulation
and power dynamics. Mrs. Mooney strategically orchestrates Polly's engagement to Mr. Doran,
leveraging his fear of scandal and societal judgment to compel him into marriage. This conflict
underscores the imbalance of power between the two characters and the exploitation of
vulnerability for personal gain. Mr. Doran's reluctance to defy Mrs. Mooney's expectations
highlight the conflict between individual agency and external influence, as he struggles to assert
his autonomy in the face of social pressure.
Man vs. Society:
The setting serves as a microcosm of societal expectations and norms, particularly

concerning gender roles and class dynamics.
Mrs. Mooney's calculated management of her establishment reflects her understanding of

societal constraints and the limited options available to women like Polly.
Polly's situation embodies the societal pressure placed on women to secure financial stability
through marriage.
⇒ This conflict highlights the tension between individual desires and societal expectations,
revealing the constraints imposed by societal norms.
The boarding house setting serves as a microcosm of societal expectations and norms,
particularly concerning gender roles and class dynamics. Mrs. Mooney's calculated

management of her establishment reflects her understanding of societal constraints and the
limited options available to women like Polly. Polly's situation embodies the societal pressure
placed on women to secure financial stability through marriage. Her options are limited, and she
is subtly coerced into a marriage that offers her economic security but sacrifices personal
autonomy. This conflict highlights the tension between individual desires and societal
expectations, revealing the constraints imposed by societal norms.
Man vs. Nature (or Circumstances):
Mr. Doran's affair with Polly is a product of circumstance, driven by fleeting passion and a
desire for companionship.
Polly's limited options as a young woman from a lower-class background. She is compelled
to make choices based on pragmatic considerations rather than personal fulfillment.
⇒ The societal repercussions of their relationship force them to confront the reality of their
situation.
Both Mr. Doran and Polly are confronted with the consequences of their actions and the
constraints imposed by their circumstances. Mr. Doran's affair with Polly is a product of
circumstance, driven by fleeting passion and a desire for companionship. However, the societal
repercussions of their relationship force them to confront the reality of their situation. Polly's
limited options as a young woman from a lower-class background highlight the influence of
circumstance on individual agency, as she is compelled to make choices based on pragmatic
considerations rather than personal fulfillment.
Man vs. Fate:
Mr. Doran and Polly find themselves ensnared in a web of societal expectations and
obligations, seemingly destined to fulfill predetermined roles within the rigid structure of
Dublin society.
Despite their attempts to assert agency and defy expectations, they are ultimately subject to
the whims of fate and the constraints imposed by their circumstances.
⇒ These conflicts create a rich tapestry of tension and drama within the boarding house,
illuminating the complexities of human relationships and the struggle for agency within a society
bound by tradition and expectation.
The characters' lives are shaped by the predetermined outcomes dictated by their social status
and environment. Mr. Doran and Polly find themselves ensnared in a web of societal
expectations and obligations, seemingly destined to fulfill predetermined roles within the rigid

structure of Dublin society. Despite their attempts to assert agency and defy expectations, they
are ultimately subject to the whims of fate and the constraints imposed by their circumstances.
These conflicts intertwine to create a rich tapestry of tension and drama within the boarding
house, illuminating the complexities of human relationships and the struggle for agency within a
society bound by tradition and expectation.
4. SETTING
The setting plays an essential role in a story because it provides the readers with context on the
time, place, and environment that the story takes place in. It improves the reader's experience and
adds to the story's development with plot, mood, and characters.
“The Boarding House” by James Joyce is set in Dublin and was probably meant to be set at the
beginning of the twentieth century as most of the stories in the collection “Dubliners”.
Physical setting: Mrs. Mooney’s boarding house, Mrs.

Mooney’s parlor, Doran’s room
“Her house had a floating population made up of tourists from Liverpool and the Isle of
Man and, occasionally, artistes from the music halls. Its resident population was made up of
clerks from the city.”
“It was a bright Sunday morning of early summer, promising heat, but with a fresh breeze
blowing. All the windows of the boarding house were open and the lace curtains ballooned
gently towards the street beneath the raised sashes.”
Some of the elements of the physical setting - the colors, the house, the bed or the breakfast-
have a symbolic function in the story.
Other elements of the physical setting: the butcher's shop, the bailiff's room, the corn-factor's
office, the church.
The main physical setting is the boarding house owned by Mrs. Mooney and the main action
happens either in Mrs. Mooney’s parlor or Bob Doran’s room. However, the author does not
describe these places in much detail: “Her house had a floating population made up of tourists
from Liverpool and the Isle of Man and, occasionally, artistes from the music halls. Its resident
population was made up of clerks from the city.”; “It was a bright Sunday morning of early
summer, promising heat, but with a fresh breeze blowing. All the windows of the boarding house
were open and the lace curtains ballooned gently towards the street beneath the raised sashes.”

Some of the elements of the physical setting - such as the colors, the house, the bed or the
breakfast- have a symbolic function in the story.
Other elements of the physical setting mentioned in the text are the butcher's shop, the bailiff's
room, the corn-factor's office, the church.
Social setting
Reputation:
Presents life in Dublin in a boarding house. The house is open to tourists, clerks, and artists
→ produces an interesting combination which does not bring a good reputation to its owner,
Mrs. Mooney.
Mrs. Mooney takes her daughter from the factory because her drunkard father used to visit
her. Also, she is sure that Mr Doran will marry her daughter because he has a reputation to
keep.
Mr. Doran himself worries about the way his reputation will be affected in either case: if he
does not marry her he will lose his honor, if he marries her his family will look down on the
girl and his friends will laugh at him.
> Consequently, public image is very important for the characters and is what compels them
to act in a certain way.
Religion:
Mr. Doran confesses the previous night to a priest and on that Sunday the church bells keep
chiming as a reminder of morale -> shows how religion also pressures us into accepting
things we may not desire, in this case, marriage.
Marriage: In the story, marriage is not a result of mutual feelings of affection, but a social
convention designed to suit one or both of the partners.
When Mrs. Mooney’s husband became a drunkard she no longer felt obliged to be in such a
marriage.
However, she views Polly marrying Bob as an advantageous settlement because the man has
a good job and a good status.
Bob and Polly seem to view marriage in terms of feelings. The girl probably used sex as a
means to an end, to get married, while the young man views marriage as entrapment, as
something that takes his freedom away.

In this short story, the social setting is more important. Firstly, it presents life in Dublin in a
boarding house. The house is open to tourists, clerks, and artists, which produces an interesting
combination which does not bring a good reputation to its owner, Mrs. Mooney. In fact, many
aspects of the social setting in the short story point out to the importance of reputation in Dublin.
Mrs. Mooney takes her daughter from the factory because her drunkard father used to visit her.
Also, she is sure that Mr. Doran will marry her daughter because he has a reputation to keep.
Mr. Doran himself worries about the way his reputation will be affected in either case: if he does
not marry her he will lose his honor, if he marries her his family will look down on the girl and
his friends will laugh at him. Consequently, public image is very important for the characters
and is what compels them to act in a certain way.
Mrs. Mooney uses this to her advantage and poses as an outraged mother to get her daughter
married. Mr. Doran is constrained to concede to the marriage because of this social pressure.
Religion also plays an interesting role in the short story as Mr. Doran confesses the previous
night to a priest and on that Sunday the church bells keep chiming as a reminder of morale. The
story shows how religion also pressures us into accepting things we may not desire, in this case,
marriage.
In fact, marriage is one of the most important social aspects of the narrative. In the story,
marriage is not a result of mutual feelings of affection, but a social convention designed to suit
one or both of the partners. When Mrs. Mooney’s husband became a drunkard she no longer felt
obliged to be in such a marriage. However, she views Polly marrying Bob as an advantageous
settlement because the man has a good job and a good status.
Not even Bob and Polly seem to view marriage in terms of feelings. The girl probably used sex as
a means to an end, to get married, while the young man views marriage as entrapment, as
something that takes his freedom away.
5. POINT OF VIEW
The short story “The Boarding House” by James Joyce is a third-person narration, combining
multiple points of view.
Mrs. Mooney’s perspective: “She was sure she would win. To begin with she had all the
weight of social opinion on her side: she was an outraged mother. She had allowed him to
live beneath her roof, assuming that he was a man of honor and he had simply abused her
hospitality.”

Polly’s perspective: “Polly knew that she was being watched, but still her mother's
persistent silence could not be misunderstood.”; “She waited on patiently, almost cheerfully,
without alarm, her memories gradually giving place to hopes and visions of the future. Her
hopes and visions were so intricate...”
Bob Doran: “The harm was done. What could he do now but marry her or run away? He
could not brazen it out.”
⇒ The narrator does not follow a single character, but employs a birds’ eye perspective: switches
from Mrs. Mooney alone in her parlor planning to talk to Mr. Doran, to Bob Doran alone in his
room and then with Polly, and finally to Polly alone in Bob’s room.
The narration is both explicit and implicit:
Explicit: “While he was sitting with her on the side of the bed Mary came to the door and
said that the missus wanted to see him in the parlor. He stood up to put on his coat and
waistcoat, more helpless than ever.”
Other times the narrative is more suggestive or implicit, as the narrator leaves readers to
draw the conclusion themselves. For instance, the narrator is never explicit about Bob and
Polly sleeping together. Also, the ending of the story is implicit hinting that Bob conceded to
marrying Polly:
"Yes, mamma?"
"Come down, dear. Mr. Doran wants to speak to you."
Then she remembered what she had been waiting for.”
The short story “The Boarding House” by James Joyce is a third-person narration, combining
multiple points of view. The narrator is outside the action, yet he has access to some of the
characters thoughts and perspectives on the events.
He begins the story using Mrs Mooney’s perspective:

She was sure she would win. To begin with she had all the weight of social opinion on her side:
she was an outraged mother. She had allowed him to live beneath her roof, assuming that he was
a man of honor and he had simply abused her hospitality.
But he also knows Polly’s perspective on the events: “Polly knew that she was being watched,
but still her mother's persistent silence could not be misunderstood.”; “She waited on patiently,
almost cheerfully, without alarm, her memories gradually giving place to hopes and visions of
the future. Her hopes and visions were so intricate...”

The third point of view used in the short story is that of Bob Doran, whose thoughts the narrator
renders while he is alone in his room: “The harm was done. What could he do now but marry
her or run away? He could not brazen it out.”
Notice that the narrator does not follow a single character, but employs a birds’ eye perspective,
as he switches from Mrs Mooney alone in her parlour planning to talk to Mr Doran, to Bob
Doran alone in his room and then with Polly, and finally to Polly alone in Bob’s room.
The narration is both explicit and implicit. At times the narrator presents directly how the action
unfolds: “While he was sitting with her on the side of the bed Mary came to the door and said
that the missus wanted to see him in the parlor. He stood up to put on his coat and waistcoat,
more helpless than ever.”
Other times the narrative is more suggestive or implicit, as the narrator leaves readers to draw
the conclusion themselves. For instance, the narrator is never explicit about Bob and Polly
sleeping together, yet it is implied all the time. Also, the ending of the story is implicit hinting
that Bob conceded to marrying Polly:
"Yes, mamma?" "Come down, dear. Mr. Doran wants to speak to you. "Then she remembered
what she had been waiting for.”
6. CHARACTER ANALYSIS
A. Characterization of Mrs. Mooney
Mrs. Mooney is one of the most developed characters in the short story “The Boarding
House” by James Joyce.
Outer characterization
→ Daughter of a butcher
→ Previously married to a man who worked for his father
→ Ex-husband became a violent drunkard

→ Owns a boarding house
→ Likely middle-aged during the narration

→ Described as a big, imposing woman
→ Has a son and a daughter

She is a “butcher’s daughter” who used to be married to a man who worked for her father but
subsequently became a violent drunkard. The woman also owns a boarding house, she is
probably middle-aged and “a big imposing woman” at the time of the narration, and has a son
and a daughter.
Inner characterization
1. Determined and sneaky
“a woman who was quite able to keep things to herself: a determined woman” ( First page,
1st paragraph, line 1-2)
⇒ Mrs. Mooney is portrayed as someone who is skilled at keeping her thoughts and intentions
private. She doesn't easily reveal what she's thinking or planning to others.
⇒ Additionally, she's described as determined, meaning she has a strong will and is committed
to achieving her goals.
Open a Boarding House
Describe as “The Madam” by guests
Indicate her determination to make a living, at any costs and that her business is not always
viewed with good eyes
⇒ “The Madam” can be associated with owners of brothels

As you can see, there is an illustration that she opened a boarding house and is called by her
guests “The Madam”, which further indicates her determination to make a living, at any cost
and that her business is not always viewed with good eyes, because the word “madam” can also
be associated with owners of brothels.
Questionable morality of the Boarding House
“Her house had a floating population made up of tourists from Liverpool and the Isle of
Man and, occasionally, artistes from the music halls. (2nd paragraph, first page, line 4-5
from the bottom)
⇒ definitely has questionable morality with lots of travelers and musicians and artisans coming
⇒ not a highly respectable area.
This indication suggests that this boarding house definitely has questionable morality with lots of
travelers and musicians and artisans coming, so it can be considered not a highly respectable
area.

Clever and strategic governance
Furthermore, the narrator depicts her as a woman who is sneaky and knows how to protect her
interests:
“She governed the house cunningly and firmly, knew when to give credit, when to be stern
and when to let things pass. All the resident young men spoke of her as The Madam. (3 last
lines, of that paragraph)
⇒ Highlights Mrs. Mooney's clever and strategic approach to managing her boarding house and
dealing with the people living there.
⇒ Adept at judging situations and deciding the best course of action ("when to give credit, when
to be stern and when to let things pass")
This demonstration highlights Mrs. Mooney's clever and strategic approach to managing her
boarding house and dealing with the people living there.
The point is that "when to give credit, when to be stern and when to let things pass" suggests
that Mrs. Mooney was adept at judging situations and deciding the best course of action. She
knew when to be lenient (give credit), when to be strict (be stern), and when to ignore minor
issues (let things pass).
2. Authoritarian and concern for reputation

Authoritarian relationship with children
She comes across as authoritarian, particularly with her daughter Polly
⇒ she decides to take out her job as a typist at a factory because her ex-husband used to go there
and visit Polly.
“Mrs. Mooney had first sent her daughter to be a typist in a corn-factor's office but, as a
disreputable sheriff's man used to come every other day to the office, asking to be allowed to say
a word to his daughter, she had taken her daughter home again and set her to do housework.”
(Paragraph 2, in page 2, line 3 to 6)
⇒ Protective and strategic move to maintain family reputation
⇒ Regular visits from a disreputable sheriff's man posed a risk to their social standing
⇒ Reflects a traditional parental authority mindset in Irish society

In her relationship with her children she comes across as authoritarian, particularly with her
daughter Polly. Such as she decides to take out of her job as a typist at a factory because her ex-
husband used to go there and visit Polly:
“Mrs. Mooney had first sent her daughter to be a typist in a corn-factor's office but, as a
disreputable sheriff's man used to come every other day to the office, asking to be allowed to say
a word to his daughter, she had taken her daughter home again and set her to do housework.”
(Paragraph 2, in page 2, line 3 to 6)
Mrs. Mooney's decision to remove Polly from her job as a typist isn't just a protective act; it's
also a strategic move to maintain the family's reputation in their community. The regular visits
from a disreputable sheriff's man to Polly's workplace posed a risk to their social standing,
prompting Mrs. Mooney to take swift action by bringing Polly back home.
This portrayal of Mrs. Mooney reflects a traditional mindset of parental authority in Irish
society. Who is very strict and does not let their children make their own decisions.
Concern for family reputation in the community
Mrs. Mooney prioritizes family reputation in the local community
Demonstrates a desire to uphold social standing and respectability
Discrepancy in concern for daughter's reputation
she willingly allows Polly to entertain the guests (not sexually)
“As Polly was very lively the intention was to give her the run of the young men. Besides,
young men like to feel that there is a young woman not very far away.” (also in that
paragraph, line 6 to 8)
⇒ Mrs. Mooney is a smart women, who does what she can to make sure her family has enough
money to live
⇒ She worries about what other people think of her family, but she's also fine with bending the
rules at home.
⇒ Mrs. Mooney let Polly spending time with men for two main reasons: business and find a
good partner (Mr. Doran)
However, although the woman also cared about her and her family’s reputation in the local
community, she does not seem to care as much about the daughter’s reputation inside her
boarding house because she willingly allows Polly to entertain the guests (not sexually):

“As Polly was very lively the intention was to give her the run of the young men. Besides, young
men like to feel that there is a young woman not very far away.” (also in that paragraph, line 6
to 8)
Mrs. Mooney's behavior shows she's a smart woman who does what she can to make sure her
family has enough money to live. She worries about what other people think of her family, but
she's also fine with bending the rules at home.
Moreover, Mrs. Mooney lets her daughter Polly spend time with the young men at their house not
just for fun, but for two main reasons: it makes the guests happy and helps the business, and it
also gives Polly a chance to find a good partner, like Mr. Doran.
3. Strategic and self- interest

Mrs. Mooney allows Polly's love affair with Mr. Doran to continue without intervention
Views a marriage between them as a good arrangement
Mrs. Mooney's intention in choosing Mr. Doran for Polly's marriage
“At last, when she judged it to be the right moment, Mrs. Mooney intervened. She dealt with
moral problems as a cleaver deals with meat: and in this case she had made up her mind.”
(paragraph 3, page 2, the last 2 lines)
⇒ Mrs. Mooney realized that she might be able to pressure Mr. Doran into marrying Polly and
obtain an advantageous marriage for her daughter.
⇒ So she plots and analyze the situation, and wait for the right moment to intervene so that
things will develop the way she wants
Why does she choose Bob Doran to marry Polly Mooney?

⇒ Mrs. Mooney is concerned about her daughter Polly's future and wants to prevent her from
making the same mistakes she did in her own marriage - married a low-class person (Mr.
Mooney) ==> separation
⇒ Mrs. Mooney perceives Mr. Doran is a suitable match for Polly due to his stable job, financial
security, and respectable status.
“She knew he had a good screw for one thing and she suspected he had a bit of stuff put by”
(page 3, paragraph 3, last 2 lines)
⇒ Screw (salary), stuff put by (savings) -> As a chance to marry upper-class as opposed to what
she did -> and you notice that she watched but she didn’t stop it

Preparation for confrontation with Mr. Doran
She prepares a speech and a role to make the situation turn in her favor
“She was sure she would win. To begin with she had all the weight of social opinion on her
side: she was an outraged mother. She had allowed him to live beneath her roof, assuming
that he was a man of honor and he had simply abused her hospitality.” (page 3, first
paragraph, line 4-7)
⇒ She is mentally and emotionally for a conversation with Mr. Doran

⇒ Confident in ability to prevail in this situation
⇒ Make it difficult for Mr. Doran by threatening him with social opinion and damaging his
reputation
⇒ That’s why she can portray herself as an outraged mother
These two attitudes are further revealed when she notices Polly has a love affair with a guest,
Mr. Doran, and she lets the relationship continue without saying anything.
In fact, Mrs. Mooney realized that she might be able to pressure Mr. Doran into marrying Polly
and obtain an advantageous marriage for her daughter.
Note that she does not care about the feelings of the couple, but views a marriage between them
as a good arrangement. So she plots and analyze the situation, and wait for the right moment to
intervene so that things will develop the way she wants to:
“At last, when she judged it to be the right moment, Mrs. Mooney intervened. She dealt with
moral problems as a cleaver deals with meat: and in this case she had made up her mind.”
(paragraph 3, page 2, the last 2 lines)
Let me make clear about her intention, why does she choose Bob Doran to marry her
daughter:
As Mrs. Mooney is concerned about her daughter Polly’s future and wants to avoid her making
the same mistakes as she did in her own marriage – married a low-class person, who was her
father’s worker and later on leading to their separation.
However, in contrast to her own experiences, Mr. Doran has his stable job, financial security,
and respectable status as a clerk in a wine merchant’s office. Therefore, Mrs. Mooney wants
Polly to marry Bob Doran to ensure Polly’s future security and happiness.
“She knew he had a good screw for one thing and she suspected he had a bit of stuff put by”
(page 3, paragraph 3, last 2 lines)

→ Screw (salary), stuff put by (savings) → As a chance to marry upper-class as opposed to
what she did → and you notice that she watched but she didn’t stop it
Furthermore, she prepares a speech and a role to make the situation turn in her favor:
“She was sure she would win. To begin with she had all the weight of social opinion on her side:
she was an outraged mother. She had allowed him to live beneath her roof, assuming that he was
a man of honor and he had simply abused her hospitality.” (page 3, first paragraph, line 4-7)
This indication shows Mrs. Mooney is depicted as preparing herself mentally and emotionally
for a conversation with Mr. Doran. Mrs. Mooney is confident in her ability to prevail in this
situation. Because she believes that social opinion is on her side, and Mr. Doran has taken
advantage of her generosity by engaging with her daughter under her roof without good
intentions, making it difficult for Mr. Doran refuses the marriage without damaging his
reputation, that’s why she can portray herself as an "outraged mother."
4. Lack of empathy and emotional sensitivity

“Things were as she had suspected: she had been frank in her questions and Polly had been
frank in her answers. Both had been somewhat awkward, of course.” (page 2, last para, line
4-5 from the bot)
Lack of emotional engagement
Instead of engaging with Polly on an emotional level or showing understanding for her
daughter's feelings
Transactional perspective
Mrs. Mooney treats the matter as business negotiation
Focuses on gathering information and making practical decisions
Prioritization of practical consideration
Primarily concerned with gathering information and making decisions based on practical
considerations
Prioritize her own interests above her daughter's emotional well-being
The explanation suggests that instead of engaging with Polly on an emotional level or showing
understanding for her daughter's feelings, Mrs. Mooney treats the matter as business

negotiation. She is primarily concerned with gathering information and making decisions based
on practical considerations rather than emotional ones.
This depiction highlights a lack of warmth or empathy in Mrs. Mooney's character. She appears
to prioritize her own interests above her daughter's emotional well-being
5. Manipulative
“Besides, he had been employed for thirteen years in a great Catholic wine merchant's
office and publicity would mean for him, perhaps, the loss of his job. Whereas if he agreed
all might be well. She knew he had a good screw for one thing and she suspected he had a
bit of stuff put by.” (Page 3, para 3, the last 4 lines)
⇒ Manipulate situations to her advantage, particularly in her dealings with Mr. Doran.
⇒ She uses social opinion and threats to convince him to marry Polly
⇒ She is using the possibility of damaging his reputation and job security to achieve her desired
outcome
Mrs. Mooney also knows how to manipulate situations to her advantage, particularly in her
dealings with Mr. Doran. She uses social opinion and threats to convince him to marry Polly
“Besides, he had been employed for thirteen years in a great Catholic wine merchant's office and
publicity would mean for him, perhaps, the loss of his job. Whereas if he agreed all might be
well. She knew he had a good screw for one thing and she suspected he had a bit of stuff put by.”
(Page 3, para 3, the last 4 lines)
This illustration suggests that she is using the possibility of damaging his reputation and job
security to achieve her desired outcome, which is the marriage between Mr. Doran and her
daughter. She knows that if he refuses the relationship, it could harm Mr. Doran's job at the wine
merchant's office. However, if Mr. Doran agrees to marry Polly, everything might turn out fine
for him.
B. Characteristics of Polly Mooney

She is described as a “a slim girl of nineteen”
The daughter of Mrs. Mooney who also does housework at her boarding house

“…she had light soft hair and a small full mouth. Her eyes, which were grey with a shade of
green through them, had a habit of glancing upwards when she spoke with anyone, which
made her look like a little perverse Madonna.” (page 2, para 2, first 3 lines)
⇒ The Madonna is a traditional symbol of purity and innocence, like an angel or saint.
⇒ "perverse” means there's a twist to this innocence -> Polly might have qualities that go
against the traditional idea of innocence.
"She was a little vulgar; sometimes she said "I seen" and "If I had've known." (1st para,
page 4, line 1-2)
⇒ Not literate
⇒ "a little vulgar," which indicates that she may speak or behave in a crude or inappropriate
manner at times -> "I seen" instead of "I saw" and "If I had've known" instead of "If I had
known."
“She wore a loose open combing-jacket of printed flannel. Her white instep shone in the
opening of her furry slippers and the blood glowed warmly behind her perfumed skin. From
her hands and wrists too as she lit and steadied her candle a faint perfume arose.” (page 4,
para 3, the last 4 lines)
⇒ A level of comfort and relaxation in her surroundings -> loose open combing-jacket of
printed flannel, white instep shines in furry slippers, blood glows warmly behind perfumed skin
She is described as “a slim girl of nineteen”, the daughter of Mrs. Mooney who also does
housework at her boarding house after quitting a job as a typist at a factory. The description of
her physical traits suggests that she is a beautiful young woman:
“…she had light soft hair and a small full mouth. Her eyes, which were grey with a shade of
green through them, had a habit of glancing upwards when she spoke with anyone, which made
her look like a little perverse Madonna.” (page 2, para 2, first 3 lines)
The description " a little perverse Madonna" is particularly intriguing.
The Madonna is a traditional symbol of purity and innocence, like an angel or saint. However,
by describing Polly as "perverse, it means there's a twist to this innocence. This description hints
that Polly might have qualities that go against the traditional idea of innocence.
She is described by Bob Doran as not very literate:
"She was a little vulgar; some times she said "I seen" and "If I had've known." (1st para, page 4,
line 1-2)

Bob Doran's description of Polly as "a little vulgar," which indicates that she may speak or
behave in a crude or inappropriate manner at times. This could contribute to her using non-
standard language like "I seen" instead of "I saw" and "If I had've known" instead of "If I had
known."
“She wore a loose open combing-jacket of printed flannel. Her white instep shone in the opening
of her furry slippers and the blood glowed warmly behind her perfumed skin. From her hands
and wrists too as she lit and steadied her candle a faint perfume arose.” (page 4, para 3, the last
4 lines)
The description of Polly's clothes, including her loose combing-jacket, furry slippers, and
perfumed skin, paints a picture of her appearance and suggests a certain level of comfort and
relaxation in her surroundings.
1. Flirtatious
“Polly, of course, flirted with the young men but Mrs. Mooney, who was a shrewd judge,
knew that the young men were only passing the time away: none of them meant business.”
(page 2, para 2, line 4-5 from bot)
⇒ Actively seeks attention and interaction with young men at the boarding house
⇒ Described as "flirting with the young men"
⇒ Indicates playful and possibly seductive behavior towards them
⇒ Mrs. Mooney sees through this behavior, recognizing that the young men are merely enjoying
it rather than serious romantic intentions “none of them meant business”.
Initially, she comes across as a flirty person who tries her luck with any men that pays attention
to her at the boarding house:
“Polly, of course, flirted with the young men but Mrs. Mooney, who was a shrewd judge, knew
that the young men were only passing the time away: none of them meant business.” (page 2,
para 2, line 4-5 from bot)
This highlights Polly's flirtatious nature, suggesting that she actively seeks attention and
interaction with the young men boarding at her mother's house. The phrase "flirted with the
young men" indicates her playful and possibly seductive behavior towards them.
However, it's noted that Mrs. Mooney sees through this behavior, recognizing that the young men
are merely enjoying it rather than serious romantic intentions “none of them meant business”.

Overall, it portrays Polly as someone who enjoys flirting and engaging with others but may not
be seeking deeper connections or commitments.
2. Manipulative
“It was not altogether his fault that it had happened. He remembered well, with the curious
patient memory of the celibate, the first casual caresses her dress, her breath, her fingers
had given him. Then late one night as he was undressing for she had tapped at his door,
timidly.” (page 4, para 3, the first 3 lines)
Similarity to her mother
She may have intentionally initiated the affair with Bob, possibly with the intention of
securing a marriage, much like her mother's approach to her old relationship.
Polly's initiative in the affair
Polly took the lead in starting a romantic affair with Bob Doran.
Flirted with him and made physical gestures to attract his attention
She timidly approached him at night, indicating her interest in spending time with him.
Emotional pressure on Bob
"O Bob! Bob! What am I to do? What am I to do at all?" She would put an end to herself,
she said. (page 4, para 2)
⇒ Polly acts in a desperate manner after confessing to her mother about the affair
⇒ She is trying to evoke sympathy and guilt in Bob, hoping that he will feel obligated to marry
her to avoid any potential consequences
When we look at Bob Doran’s version of their affair, we begin to feel that Polly is similar to her
mother. -> She may have intentionally initiated the affair with Bob, possibly with the intention of
securing a marriage, much like her mother's approach to her old relationship.
In the initial interactions Bob describes Polly was the one who proactive, trying to tempt the
man:
patient memory of the celibate, the first casual caresses her dress, her breath, her fingers had
given him. Then late one night as he was undressing for she had tapped at his door, timidly.”
(page 4, para 3, the first 3 lines)

This indication suggests that Polly took the lead in starting a romantic affair with Bob Doran.
She flirted with him and made physical contact to attract his attention, like touching his clothes
and breath. Later, she timidly approached him at night, indicating her interest in spending time
with him.
Moreover, after Polly confirms to her mother the affair with Bob, she goes to his room and acts
in a desperate way which may hint that she is trying to emotionally pressure him:
"O Bob! Bob! What am I to do? What am I to do at all?"

She would put an end to herself, she said. (page 4, para 2)
This expression means she is trying to evoke sympathy and guilt in Bob, hoping that he will feel
obligated to marry her to avoid any potential consequences
Besides, by confessing to her mother about the love affair, Polly may have attempted to
manipulate the situation to her advantage, she knows that her mother would intervene and
pressure Bob into marriage.
So you can see that Polly demonstrates a strategic mindset, starting an affair with Bob Doran
and using emotional strategy to influence the situation to her favor.
3. Dependence
“ Polly sat for a little time on the side of the bed, crying. Then she dried her eyes and went
over to the looking-glass.”; (last page, para 3, line 1-2)
⇒ Polly's initial display of desperation and emotional distress is followed by a shift in attitude
⇒ After Bob goes to talk to her mother, Polly's demeanor changes to one of composure and
optimism
⇒ Polly's reliance on her mother becomes evident as she appears to trust her to resolve the
situation
“She waited on patiently, almost cheerfully, without alarm, her memories gradually giving
place to hopes and visions of the future. ” (last page, para 4, line 1-2)
⇒ This suggests that Polly's earlier display of desperation may have been not true ⇒ After Bob
leaves to talk to her mother, she appears optimistic about her future.
⇒ Instead of taking proactive steps, Polly waits patiently, indicating her dependence on her
mother's intervention ⇒ Polly seems to trust that her mother will handle the matter and help her
to have a positive future without worry or alarm.

“Polly sat for a little time on the side of the bed, crying. Then she dried her eyes and went over
to the looking-glass.”; (last page, para 3, line 1-2)
When Bob goes to talk to her mother, and she remains alone, she wipes her tears and starts
daydreaming about her future, which suggests that she was probably never desperate, as she
counted on her mother to solve everything and get her married
“She waited on patiently, almost cheerfully, without alarm, her memories gradually giving place
to hopes and visions of the future. ” (last page, para 4, line 1-2)
This suggests that Polly's earlier display of desperation and may have been not true or
exaggerated. Because after Bob leaves to talk to her mother, she appears optimistic about her
future.
This shift in behavior implies that Polly may have been relying on her mother to intervene and
resolve the situation for her. Polly seems to trust that her mother will handle the matter and help
her to have a positive future without worrying.
C. Characterization of Bob Doran

Bob Doran is the third character whose perspective the narrator employs.
Tenant at the boarding house
Works for a wine merchant
Financially stable enough to settle down
We find out that he is a tenant at the boarding house and works for a wine merchant and that he
has enough money to settle down.
1. Serious and anxious
“a serious young man, not rakish or loud-voiced like the others”(page 3, para 3, line 2-3)
⇒ Described as a serious young man by Mrs. Mooney

⇒ Depicted as very anxious in his thoughts and actions
⇒ Carries a weight of responsibility and worry

Bob Doran’s inner characterization stems from his attitude and thoughts, but is also conveyed
directly from Mrs. Mooney’s perspective
“a serious young man, not rakish or loud-voiced like the others”(page 3, para 3, line 2-3)
Described as a serious young man by Mrs. Mooney and depicted as very anxious in his thoughts
and actions, we can see Bob Doran carries a weight of responsibility and worry throughout the
story.
2. Guilt and anxiety
“The harm was done. What could he do now but marry her or run away? He could not
brazen it out.” (page 3, para 5, line 4-5 from the bot)
⇒ The guilt was induced by a previous confession to a priest who urged him to repair the
situation with Polly, meaning to get married to her.
⇒ Considers running away to avoid facing consequences
⇒ Torn between his sense of responsibility and desire to escape the situation
Bob experiences guilt and anxiety over his affair with Polly Mooney. The guilt was induced by a
previous confession to a priest who urged him to repair the situation with Polly, meaning to get
married to her.
“The harm was done. What could he do now but marry her or run away? He could not brazen it
out.” (page 3, para 5, line 4-5 from the bot)
Despite feeling trapped by this obligation, Bob still considers the option of running away to
avoid facing the consequences. He struggles with the decision, between his sense of
responsibility and his desire for freedom.
3. Concerned About Reputation:
“The affair would be sure to be talked of and his employer would be certain to hear of it.
Dublin is such a small city: everyone knows everyone else's business.” (page 3, para 3, line
3-4 from the bot)
Concerns about tying down to Polly
Bob is not entirely convinced that he wants to be tied down to Polly
Cares about others' opinions of him and Polly
Fear of reputation damage

He fears that if he runs away from the marriage, he will ruin his reputation
Dublin's small size means everyone knows everyone else's business
“First of all there was her disreputable father and then her mother's boarding house was
beginning to get a certain fame. He had a notion that he was being had. He could imagine
his friends talking of the affair and laughing. She was a little vulgar…” (page 3-4, last para
last sentences)
Feeling trapped
Uncertain about his feelings for Polly
Concerned about her reputation due to her father's disrepute and her mother's boarding
house gaining negative fame
Perception of manipulation
Perceives Polly's family circumstances as disreputable
Worries about being manipulated or taken advantage of by Polly
“The affair would be sure to be talked of and his employer would be certain to hear of it. Dublin
is such a small city: everyone knows everyone else's business.” (page 3, para 3, line 3-4 from
the bot)
Bob is not entirely convinced that he wants to be tied down to Polly, and he also cares about
others' opinion of him and of Polly. He fears that if he runs away from the marriage, he will ruin
his reputation
But he also feels trapped, because he is not sure of his feelings for the girl, and he is also
concerned about her reputation:
“First of all there was her disreputable father and then her mother's boarding house was
beginning to get a certain fame. He had a notion that he was being had. He could imagine his
friends talking of the affair and laughing. She was a little vulgar…” (page 3-4, last para last
sentences)
He perceives her father as disreputable, and her mother's boarding house is gaining a negative
reputation. Bob worries that he's being taken advantage of by Polly
It illustrates Bob's conflicting emotions of uncertainty, fear of social judgment, and feeling
trapped in a situation where he's unsure of his true feelings for Polly.
4. Conflict between duty and desire

patient memory of the celibate, the first casual caresses her dress, her breath, her fingers
had given him. Then late one night as he was undressing for she had tapped at his door,
timidly.” (page 4, para 3, the first 3 lines)
⇒ Recognizes his responsibility for the affair, acknowledging initial physical attraction
= Recalls moments where Polly initiated contact
“He comforted her feebly, telling her not to cry, that it would be all right, never fear. He felt
against his shirt the agitation of her bosom.” (page 4, para 2, the 2 last sentence)
⇒ Describes being very attracted to Polly sexually

⇒ He is distant ⇒ his focus on the physical sensation against his shirt rather than on Polly's
emotional state ⇒ highlights his internal conflict between desire and reluctance to fully
engage with her emotionally.
On one hand, he acknowledges his own responsibility for the affair, However, he also seems to
place some blame on Poly for tempting him into the relationship
patient memory of the celibate, the first casual caresses her dress, her breath, her fingers had
given him. Then late one night as he was undressing for she had tapped at his door, timidly.”
(page 4, para 3, the first 3 lines)
Still, the way he describes the physical interactions with the woman, indicate that he is very
attracted to her sexually. When she knocks at his door crying and seeming desperate he tries to
comfort her:
“He comforted her feebly, telling her not to cry, that it would be all right, never fear. He felt
against his shirt the agitation of her bosom.” (page 4, para 2, the 2 last sentence)
He's still distant because while he attempts to comfort her, his actions suggest a lack of
emotional investment. His focus on the physical sensation against his shirt rather than on Polly's
emotional state, highlights his internal conflict between desire and reluctance to fully engage
with her emotionally.
5. Fear of consequences
“…but Jack kept shouting at him that if any fellow tried that sort of a game on with his sister
he'd bloody well put his teeth down his throat, so he would.” (last page, para 2, the last 2
lines)

Concern for safety
Seeing Jack on the way to Mrs. Mooney reminds Bob of the potential consequences if he
refuses to marry Polly
Bob fears violence from Polly's brother if he doesn't committed to marrying Polly
“…but Jack kept shouting at him that if any fellow tried that sort of a game on with his sister
he'd bloody well put his teeth down his throat, so he would.” (last page, para 2, the last 2 lines)
The memory of Polly’s brother reacting violently once when Polly’s honor was offended and then
seeing Jack on the way to Mrs Mooney, indicates that Bob also fears what Polly’s brother might
do, if he will not committed to marrying the girl
6. Reluctant acceptance
“His instinct urged him to remain free, not to marry. Once you are married you are done for,
it said.” (page 4, para 1, the last 2 lines).
⇒ His decision was a result of constraint

⇒ He sees marriage as a kind of prison
⇒ He has no other choice because of the situation he's in
“His instinct urged him to remain free, not to marry. Once you are married you are done for, it
said.” (page 4, para 1, the last 2 lines).
The ending of the story suggests that Bob Doran probably accepted marrying Polly in the end,
after the conversation with Mrs Mooney. However, it is clear that his decision was a result of
constraint; He sees marriage as a kind of prison, but he feels like he has no other choice because
of the situation he's in.
7. THEMES
Social norms
Mrs. Mooney utilizes social norms to secure an advantageous marriage for her daughter.
Mr. Doran faces a dilemma where both marrying Polly and refusing her come with
threats to his reputation.
His agreement to marry Polly highlights the strength of social norms during that era.
⇒ Social norms highlight characters’ challenges in adhering to or resisting societal expectations.

In the story, Mrs. Mooney uses constraint and social norms to secure an
advantageous marriage for her daughter. This reflects the social norms of the early twentieth
century, where extramarital affairs were shamed and carried significant stigma for both people
involved. Mrs. Mooney knows that if people find out about the affair, Mr. Doran's reputation will
be ruined, so she intends to use this opportunity to compel him into marriage with Polly.
Bob Doran, on the other hand, is in a disadvantageous position, where either choice—
marrying Polly or fleeing—threatens his reputation. Refusing to marry her risks public
judgment. Conversely, if he marries her, his friends and family might also judge him because the
girl has a lower social status (her father is a drunkard /ˈdrʌŋkəd/, her mother is viewed as a
Madam).
We can see that his strong worry about what others think, along with Mrs. Mooney's clever use of
social rules demonstrates the considerable influence of societal expectations. Mr. Doran
agreeing to marry Polly also shows how strong social norms were back then. The impact of
societal norms highlights the characters' challenges in dealing with societal
expectations, showcasing the limitations and pressures they encounter while making decisions
and forming relationships
Marriage
Mrs. Mooney sees Polly's marriage to Mr. Doran as a way to improve their social
standing.
For Polly, marriage represents a path to independence from her mother's control.
Mr. Doran fears marriage due to concerns about losing freedom and damaging his
reputation around Polly's family.
⇒ The theme of marriage underscores characters' complex considerations of personal freedom,

reputation, and familial associations.
In the short story, the theme of marriage is examined not in relation to emotions and
relationships, but as a formal convention and even a form of punishment.
For Mrs. Mooney, her daughter's marriage serves as a method to save Polly's reputation and
to elevate /ˈelɪveɪt/ their social status. She views marriage as a business contract and a
competition to be won by Mrs. Mooney.
For Polly, marriage appears to be the way to attain independence from her
mother. However, Mr. Doran is filled with dread at the thought of marriage because he
believes it will mean giving up his personal freedom. Like Mrs. Mooney, he views marriage as a

decision that must consider reputation and public image. He's afraid her family's bad
reputation will reflect poorly on him.
The theme of marriage underscores characters' complex considerations of personal freedom,
reputation, and familial associations.
Desire
Desire for freedom: Polly and Mr. Doran both seek to escape societal and family
constraints, facing struggles to balance personal freedom with maintaining social status
and reputation.
Desire for social status: Mrs. Mooney arranges Polly's marriage to Mr. Doran to
elevate their social standing and ensure stability.
Conflicting desires: Characters face personal desires against societal norms, causing
inner conflicts and tough choices.
⇒ Desire influences characters' choices and relationships, showcasing the complexity of human
desires within societal boundaries.
The theme of desire is a crucial aspect of the storyline.
Desire for Freedom: The longing to escape societal and familial control is also a significant
factor in the story. Polly, despite her desires, must contend with her mother's control and societal
expectations regarding moral and social rules. Mr. Doran also stands at a crossroads
between maintaining his personal freedom and protecting his social status and reputation.
Desire for Social Status: Mrs. Mooney's actions reflect a desire for social advancement and
stability. She arranges Polly's marriage as a means to elevate their social status and secure a
better future.
Conflicting Desires: The story explores the tension between individual desires and societal
expectations. Characters must navigate their personal desires while facing the constraints
imposed by social norms, leading to internal conflicts and moral dilemmas.
Thus, desire plays a key role in 'The Boarding House,' shaping characters' decisions and
relationships. It highlights the complexity of human desires within societal constraints.
8. FIGURATIVE LANGUAGES
Beyond the surface narrative, the author employs figurative language to add deeper layers of
meaning to the story.

8.1 Imagery
“It was a bright Sunday morning of early summer, promising heat, but with a fresh breeze
gently towards the street beneath the raised sashes.”
⇒ Joyce's vivid imagery of a bright Sunday morning in early summer sets the tone by evoking
warmth and freshness through open windows, gentle breezes, and billowing lace curtains,
appealing to the reader's senses.
“He was a shabby stooped little drunkard with a white face and a white moustache and
white eyebrows, penciled above his little eyes, which were veined and raw; and all day long
he sat in the bailiff's room, waiting to be put on a job.”
⇒ "shabby," "stooped," and "drunkard," ⇒ creates a vivid image of his disheveled and unkempt
state
"white face" and "white mustache," ⇒ highlights his worn and weathered features his eyes as
"veined and raw" ⇒ emphasizes a sense of exhaustion or hardship
In the story, Joyce creates imagery in connection to the setting and the characters to vividly
depict the setting and characters.
Here are two examples:
It was a bright Sunday morning of early summer, promising heat, but with a fresh breeze
gently towards the street beneath the raised sashes.
Joyce paints a picturesque scene of a bright Sunday morning in early summer, evoking
sensations of warmth and freshness with the imagery of open windows, gentle breezes, and
billowing lace curtains. This imagery appeals to the reader's senses, creating an atmosphere that
sets the tone for the story.
He was a shabby stooped little drunkard with a white face and a white moustache and white
eyebrows, penciled above his little eyes, which were veined and raw; and all day long he sat in
the bailiff's room, waiting to be put on a job.
The second example uses imagery to convey his physical appearance and demeanor. Through
descriptions of the man as "shabby," "stooped," and "drunkard," Joyce creates a vivid image of
his unkempt state. The imagery of his "white face" and "white mustache," along with the penciled
white eyebrows, adds further depth to the character's appearance, highlighting his worn and

weathered features. Additionally, the imagery of his eyes as "veined and raw" suggests a sense of
exhaustion or hardship, contributing to the overall characterization.
Overall, Joyce's use of imagery serves to enrich the narrative by providing vivid visual and
sensory details that deepen the reader's engagement with the text and enhance their
understanding of the setting and characters.
8.2 Similes
“ She dealt with moral problems as a cleaver deals with meat”
⇒ Employs a simile to depict Mrs. Mooney's attitude to love and marriage, likening it to that of
a butcher handling meat.
⇒ This comparison suggests a meticulous and exacting nature in her problem-solving.
“ She dealt with moral problems as a cleaver deals with meat”
James Joyce employs a simile to depict Mrs. Mooney's attitude to love and marriage, likening
it to that of a butcher handling meat. This comparison suggests a meticulous and exacting nature
in her problem-solving. By equating Mrs. Mooney's actions to those of a cleaver, Joyce vividly
emphasizes her ability to make decisive decisions. Overall, the use of figurative language offers
valuable insights into Mrs. Mooney's character and her role within the narrative.
8.3 Repetition
“sure she would win"
⇒ emphasizes Mrs. Mooney's unwavering resolve and confidence in her plan to arrange Polly's
marriage to Mr. Doran
“"O Bob! Bob! What am I to do? What am I to do at all?"
⇒ reflects Polly's emotional turmoil and confusion, highlighting Polly's desperation when her
mother discovers her relationship with Bob.
James Joyce utilizes repetition to underscore the determination of Mrs. Mooney and the
perceived desperation of Polly.
The repetition of the phrase “sure she would win" throughout the story emphasizes
Mrs. Mooney's resolve and confidence in her plan to get Mr. Doran marry Polly. Each
repetition serves to reinforce Mrs. Mooney's determination and conviction.
The author highlights the perceived desperation of Polly: "O Bob! Bob! What am I to do? What
am I to do at all?"

She would put an end to herself, she said.
Similarly, repetition is utilized to express Polly's feelings of fear and helplessness upon
discovering that her mother has uncovered her secret relationship with Bob. The repeated
exclamation mirrors Polly's emotional turmoil.
Overall, the use of repetition in these instances serves to highlight the emotions of the
characters, providing insight into their states of mind.
8.4 Rhetorical question
Definition: A rhetorical question is a figure of speech in which a question is asked for a

reason other than to get an answer.
“What could he do now but marry her or run away?"
⇒ underscores the limited options available to him

⇒ shows the character’s line of thought or their anxieties
⇒ offers insight into the characters' internal struggles, moral dilemmas, and emotional states
Rhetorical questions used to delve into the characters' inner conflicts and dilemmas. For
example, Mr. Doran's question, "What could he do now but marry her or run
away?" underscores the limited options available to him. These rhetorical questions provide
insight into the show the characters’ line of thought and emotional states like their anxieties,
enriching the narrative and deepening the reader's understanding of the complexities within the
story.
Overall, Joyce's use of rhetorical questions in this example offers insight into the characters'
internal struggles, moral dilemmas /dɪˈlemə/ and emotional states.
8.5 Symbolism
The Madam
Mrs. Mooney's title as 'Madam' symbolizes her authority as the owner of the boarding
house
This authority is evident in her ability to compel Mr. Doran to marry Polly, showcasing
her strength of character and influence within the story.\
This symbol shows the strength of Mrs. Mooney character in the story. She is the owner of
the boarding house so everyone called her “Madam”. As we see in the point of the story,

Mr. Doran can’t do anything except to accept it when Mrs. Mooney asked him to marry
Polly, illustrating her authority and influence.
George Church/Priest
This symbol underscores the influential role of religion in the lives of Dubliners during
James Joyce's time.
This symbol illustrates its influence in shaping social norms and behaviors.
This symbol highlights the significant role of the Catholic Church in Ireland during the time
James Joyce wrote this story. At that time, George’s Church along with references to the
priest and confession are a symbol of the importance of religion in the Dubliners lives,
symbolizing how it shapes and imposes social norms and behaviors.
Mooney
the symbol of “money”
interested in exploiting her daughter's marriage
Through the name "Mooney," we can clearly see the symbol of “money” here. Mrs. Mooney
emerges as a manipulative figure, solely interested in exploiting her daughter's marriage.
We also get a sense that she just wants to get rid of her daughter. Mrs. Mooney uses her
daughter as bait to keep guests happy and tries to marry her off with one of them.
Grey color
“Her eyes, which were grey with a shade of green through them, had a habit of glancing
upwards when she spoke with anyone, which made her look like a little perverse madonna.”
associated with emotionlessness, such as moodiness and dullness
adds depth to her character and highlighting the complexity of her personality
Her eyes, which were grey with a shade of green through them, had a habit of glancing
upwards when she spoke with anyone, which made her look like a little perverse madonna.
The gray color of Polly's eyes serves as a significant symbol in the story. Grey,
often associated with emotionless, such as moodiness, dullness as well as sophisticated,
reflects Polly's surroundings. Additionally, gray conveys a sense of formality and
sophistication, aligning with Polly's conservative upbringing. So, it can add depth to her
character and highlight the complexity of her personality.
Cleaver

a potent symbol representing the forceful and decisive power of social oppression
Mrs. Mooney's upbringing in a household with cleavers and her own experience of
domestic violence. ⇒highlight the pervasive threat of violence faced by women in
early 20th-century Dublin.
Mrs. Mooney transforms her experience into empowerment, navigating social norms to
her advantage.
In "The Boarding House," the cleaver serves as a potent symbol representing the forceful
and decisive power of social oppression. Mrs. Mooney, having grown up in a butcher's
household surrounded by cleavers, left her alcoholic husband after he “went for [her]
with the cleaver” one night. The cleaver symbolizes the ways in which Dublin’s society
oppressed and even terrorized women in early 20th-century. However, Mrs. Mooney
transforms this traumatic experience into a tool for survival and empowerment. As a
single mother and businesswoman, she learns to navigate social norms to her advantage.
When confronted with moral dilemmas, such as Polly and Mr. Doran's relationship, Mrs.
Mooney approaches them with the same efficiency “as a cleaver deals with meat.”
8.6 Personification
“His instinct urged him to remain free, not to marry,..."
By portraying instinct as something that can "urge" and guide actions, Joyce emphasizes
the internal struggle between personal desires and societal expectations faced by the
character.
⇒ This personification adds depth to the character's internal conflicts, shedding light on the
complexities of navigating autonomy versus conformity.
“ Her memories gradually give place to hopes and visions of the future.”
Joyce portrays memories capable of yielding to hope and anticipation, conveying a

sense of transformation within the character's psyche.
"His instinct urged him to remain free, not to marry," By giving instinct human-like
qualities, such as the ability to "urge" and influence actions, Joyce shows how characters
struggle between their own desires and what society expects of them. This makes the
characters' inner conflicts more vivid and emphasizes the theme of choosing between
personal freedom and fitting in with society.
“ Her memories gradually giving place to hopes and visions of the future.”

Joyce depicts memories as having the ability to bring hope and anticipation, showing how
characters can undergo transformation and renewal. This personification highlights their
capacity to remain hopeful and optimistic, even in difficult times, emphasizing their
emotional growth and resilience.
Joyce's use of personification serves to evoke vivid imagery, and illuminate the internal lives
of the characters.
8.7 Metaphor
“... she has made a clean breast of it to her mother.”
"made a clean breast of it" to her mother: she confessed honestly about her pregnancy
The metaphor implies a sense of release from the burden of keeping a significant secret
and a willingness to be transparent and truthful with her mother.
“... she has made a clean breast of it to her mother.” The phrase "made a clean breast of
it" implies that she confessed honestly about her relationship with Mr. Doran. This
metaphor suggests a sense of release from the burden of keeping such a significant
secret, as well as a willingness to be transparent and truthful with her mother.
8.8 Language
“All his long years of service gone for nothing! All his industry and diligence was thrown
away! As a young man he had sown his wild oats, of course; he had boasted of his free-
thinking and denied the existence of God to his companions in public-houses.”
The author occasionally employs some long descriptive phrases along with the thought
flow of the characters.
represents Mr. Doran’s thoughts although they are rendered in the third person and are
not marked by quotation marks.
⇒ provides insight into characters' inner turmoil.

Focus on character psychology: Dialogue is limited in favor of narrative and descriptive
passages.
⇒ allows for a deeper exploration of the psychology of main characters

Song fragments: to show the diversity of genres within the narrative.
The author occasionally employs some long descriptive phrases along with the thought flow of
the characters which may seem harder to follow because of free indirect speech:

All his long years of service gone for nothing! All his industry and diligence was thrown away!
As a young man he had sown his wild oats, of course; he had boasted of his free-thinking and
denied the existence of God to his companions in public-houses.
The above fragment, for instance, represents Mr. Doran’s thoughts although they are rendered in
the third person and are not marked by quotation marks.
Dialogue is used very little, as the narration is more focused on the psychology of the main
characters. Otherwise, the author prefers narrative and descriptive passages. Also, the author
even inserts fragments of a song to show the diversity of genres within the narrative.
She sang:
I'm a ... naughty girl.
You needn't sham:
You know I am.
By employing figurative language, "The Boarding House" paints a vivid picture for readers,
enhancing their understanding of human nature and social dynamics depicted in the story.
9. STUDENTS’ RESPONSE
9.1. Likes/dislikes:
Likes:
Mrs. Mooney's protectiveness ensures her daughter's future.
Her resourcefulness helps her overcome challenges for Polly's benefit.
Dislikes:
She orchestrates the situation to pressure Mr. Doran into marriage
"But she would not do so. For her only one reparation could make up for the loss of her
daughter's honor: marriage."
Lack of freedom: Polly didn't get to choose what she wanted to do. Her mom, Mrs. Mooney,
decided everything for her, even who she would marry. Polly didn't have a chance to say
what she wanted.
Uncertainty about morals: Mrs. Mooney decides everything for Polly, including who she
will marry.
9.2. New Ending:

Polly felt a little scared as she walked down the stairs to see Mr. Doran.
She didn't know what he wanted to talk about. But when she got there, Mr. Doran smiled at
her.
He said he had been thinking a lot and realized he wanted to be with her forever and asked
her if she would marry him.
Polly's heart felt like it was going to burst with happiness, and she couldn't help but say yes!
They hugged each other tightly, and Mrs. Mooney, who had been watching nearby, smiled
warmly and gave them both a big hug too.
Polly knew in that moment that no matter what, they would always be together and that
made her feel incredibly happy”
10. OTHERS:
In a house of guests, tales unfold,

Mrs. Mooney's control, clever and bold.
Her daughter's future, a plan in sight,
In shadows lurking, in the quiet of night.
Tourists and clerks, in her house reside,
As Mrs. Mooney's plans she did guide.
Her daughter Polly, caught in a dance,
With Mr. Doran, a fleeting chance.

Mrs. Mooney watches, with knowing eyes,
As her daughter's fate, she begins to devise.
A mother's scheme, a silent vow,
To secure her daughter's future now.
Decisions made, and hearts entwined,
In Mrs. Mooney's careful design.
A story whispered, in quiet tones,
In a boarding house, where secrets are known.

The Boarding House (James Joyce)

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The Boarding House (James Joyce)

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THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 1

Full name: James Augustine Aloysius Joyce

An Irish novelist and poet

A key contributor to the modernist avant-garde literary movement

The Church and Religion

Dublin and Irish politics

1.1 Life Events

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 2

1903: met Nora Barnacle – his future wife

1914: moved his family to Zurich, Switzerland due to World War I

1928: got married to Nora in London

January 13, 1941: passed away at the age of 59

1.2 Literary Works

A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man (1916)

Pomes Penyeach (1927)

Finnegans Wake (1939)

Stephen Hero (1944)

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 3

offers a more traditional yet poignant examination of the human condition

Man vs. Himself:

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 4

Mr. Doran's reluctance to defy Mrs. Mooney's expectations

⇒ Highlight the conflict between individual agency and external influence.

Man vs. Society:

The setting serves as a microcosm of societal expectations and norms, particularly

Mrs. Mooney's calculated management of her establishment reflects her understanding of

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 5

Man vs. Nature (or Circumstances):

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 6

Physical setting: Mrs. Mooney’s boarding house, Mrs.

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 7

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 8

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 9

The narration is both explicit and implicit:

He begins the story using Mrs Mooney’s perspective:

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 10

→ Ex-husband became a violent drunkard

→ Likely middle-aged during the narration

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 11

1. Determined and sneaky

Open a Boarding House

Describe as “The Madam” by guests

⇒ “The Madam” can be associated with owners of brothels

Questionable morality of the Boarding House

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 12

2. Authoritarian and concern for reputation

She comes across as authoritarian, particularly with her daughter Polly

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 13

Mrs. Mooney prioritizes family reputation in the local community

Demonstrates a desire to uphold social standing and respectability

Discrepancy in concern for daughter's reputation

she willingly allows Polly to entertain the guests (not sexually)

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 14

3. Strategic and self- interest

Views a marriage between them as a good arrangement

Mrs. Mooney's intention in choosing Mr. Doran for Polly's marriage

Why does she choose Bob Doran to marry Polly Mooney?

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 15

⇒ She is mentally and emotionally for a conversation with Mr. Doran

THE BOARDING HOUSE (JAMES JOYCE) 16

4. Lack of empathy and emotional sensitivity

Lack of emotional engagement

Mrs. Mooney treats the matter as business negotiation