James Joyce’s essay titled “Araby” is set in Dublin, Ireland and captures the story of a young boy’s passage into adulthood. Through skillful portrayal, the author effectively presents the difficulties and hurdles encountered during this transformative phase. Consequently, many essays have been penned analyzing the profound significance of “Araby” since its release. These interpretations differ according to individuals’ backgrounds, religious convictions, and moral principles imparted by their parents.
When children grow and learn about relationships, it is typical for many of them to develop a significant attraction towards someone of the opposite gender. It is crucial to thoroughly analyze this matter in order to reveal any other hidden concerns.
The essay questions the respectability of priests for various reasons. Firstly, it mentions that the previous tenant of the house, who happened to be a priest, died in one of the rooms. The rooms were filled with musty air from being closed for a long time and there was a messy waste room behind the kitchen filled with old papers. Among these papers, several books with paper covers were discovered, their pages curled and damp. Titles such as “The Abbot” by Walter Scott, “The Devout Communicant,” and “Memoirs of Vidocq” were part of this collection. Out of all these books, the narrator had a special fondness for “Memoirs of Vidocq” because its pages had turned yellow over time. This book is described as containing sexually suggestive stories about a French criminal who later became a detective.
From this observation, it can be concluded that while priests are obligated to remain celibate according to their oath, it does not necessarily mean they have never engaged in sexual activities.As human beings with similar hormonal and chemical makeup in our bodies, it is only natural to experience sexual desires at some point.However, whether or not the priest acted upon these desires remains undisclosed within this essay.It is left up to the reader’s assumptions and interpretations.In this essay, it is additionally highlighted that despite the expected poverty of priests based on their oath, a specific priest displayed generosity throughout his life by bequeathing all his money to various institutions as stated in his will. Although some may find this act surprising as it goes against the conventional expectation for priests to strictly adhere to their vow of poverty, I believe that everyone requires a certain amount of financial resources. There may be specific necessities that an individual needs at a particular time which their parish cannot promptly provide. Furthermore, it is also possible for someone with only five dollars to decide to donate one dollar each to five different institutions.
In my opinion, this young man is simply going through the challenges that all humans face on their journey to adulthood. Observing Mangan’s sister secretly suggests to me that he is afraid of the changes happening to him, possibly feeling insecure. He lacks the courage to openly express his emotions to her.
The narrator reminds his uncle about their visit to Araby, recalling how he hung his heavy overcoat on the hall tree and made it rock. The narrator believes these actions hold significance. Initially, I assumed that the uncle had been at the pub. However, upon further reflection, it seems more likely that he was simply absorbed in his work, fully aware of his responsibilities as a family man and oblivious to the passing time. The uncle acknowledges the proverb “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” This can be interpreted as him recognizing his hard work throughout the day and understanding why the narrator desires to go to the bazaar. He gives him money and sends him off.
There was no significant “awakening” during the bazaar event. However, the person’s realization of foolish behavior and subsequent decision to change their approach to life happened only after overhearing a conversation.
When evaluating other people’s interpretations of essays and short stories, it is important to take into account various factors such as age, morals, values, upbringing, religious background, etc. These elements can greatly influence how individuals interpret a piece of writing. It is essential to respect that everyone has the right to their own opinion, even if it differs from others or is not highly valued by them. However, it is still crucial to demonstrate respect for differing opinions.
