Discovering 'Eveline' in Dubliners"

A short story written by James Joyce and featured in his collection "Dubliners."

The story follows the life of Eveline Hill, a young woman living in Dublin.

Story

The story opens with Eveline thinking whether to leave her home and family to escape with Frank, a sailor she has fallen in love with. Frank promises her a new life in another city.

As Eveline prepares to embark on this new journey, she reflects on her responsibilities and fears.

She is torn between the desire for freedom and adventure with Frank and the fear of the unknown.

While she is waiting at the dock to board the ship with Frank, she becomes overwhelmed by a sense of paralysis.

The memories of her mother, her home, and the promise of a stable life prevent her from taking the final step towards leaving.

In the last moments, she lets go of Frank's hand and couldn’t escape her past and embrace change.

Paralysis

Eveline's emotional paralysis is a result of several factors: her loyalty to her family, her fear of the unknown, and her memories of her mother.

Her attachment to the past, her family's expectations, and her sense of duty all contribute to her feeling trapped and unable to move forward.

Themes

Eveline's internal conflict and the broader societal constraints she faces in her pursuit of happiness and change.

References

Haslam SA & Asbee SU (eds) 2010, 'The Twentieth Century'.