Epiphany in James Joyce’s "A portrait of The Artist As a Young Man"

Critics have interpreted the modern novelist's experience as signaling the demise of storytelling, a truth exemplified in James Joyce's works. Joyce, who was nearly blind since childhood, perceived the world through sounds. In Dublin, he sought to convey the immediate and present moments through what he termed an "epiphany" (derived from the Greek word "epiphaneia" meaning "appearance"). Unlike others, Joyce aimed to depict immediate consciousness as reality. In "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man," Joyce skillfully employs epiphanies to represent moments when characters delve deep into the essence of things and encounter sudden spiritual revelations. These epiphanies serve to resolve conflicts faced by aspiring artists.

Stephen's spiritual manifestation and aesthetic satisfaction are conveyed through the use of epiphanies, which are sudden revelations of inner truth paralleled by visual moments. The journey of Stephen, from his earliest infancy to his development as an artist, is depicted through carefully crafted and impactful epiphanies that illustrate the evolution of his consciousness. The literary device employed to portray Stephen's rejection of the priesthood, his shedding of national identity, and his pursuit of artistic self-discovery in a state of exile is the deliberate and forceful presentation of these revelations.

In fact, at the end of each chapter, skillful use of epiphanies can be observed in "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man." In Chapter-I, Stephen, in his childhood, encounters certain conflicts that create confusion within him. With perplexing impressions, Stephen perceives the world of the elders. He wavers and hesitates regarding his implicit trust in the elders and his own helpless insecurity. Although he has absolute faith in the justice and morality of his elders, he cannot comprehend their quarrels over political and religious matters. Naturally, there is a noticeable disparity between his expectations and the reality he witnesses. However, ultimately, Stephen triumphs when he gains recognition at school and is hailed as a hero. This marks the resolution of the conflict and the attainment of justice, which becomes evident through an epiphany.

In Chapter II, Stephen enters adolescence, facing family problems and experiencing distress. At school, his essay is accused of heresy, and his classmates' unfriendly attitude deeply hurts him. Moreover, his growing hatred for his father adds to his inner turmoil. Interestingly, Stephen's idealized notions of beauty and purity transform into vague erotic fantasies about a girl named Mercedes, who frequently appears in his dreams. Torn between conflicts, Stephen eventually reaches an epiphany that leads to a significant learning experience.

In his dream, Stephen's vision of Mercedes intertwines with an encounter with a prostitute. Although this act is considered a grave sin, Stephen undergoes an emotional awakening and resolution. He finds solace and relief as tears of joy and relief shine in his delighted eyes. Within the prostitute's embrace, Stephen feels an immediate sense of strength, fearlessness, and self-assurance. Thought it is an absolute sin, Stephen passes into an emotional learning and resolution:

          “Tears of joy and relief shone in his delighted eyes.

        In her arms he felt that he had suddenly become strong and fearless and sure of himself.”

 Continuing the same inner conflict, Chapter III portrays Stephen frequently engaging with prostitutes. Stephen grapples with moral dilemmas and the clash between his religious upbringing and worldly experiences. The epiphany he experiences brings him immense relief and a sense of forgiveness:

"He had confessed, and God had pardoned him. His soul was once again made holy, holy and happy. The past was behind him, and the ciborium had come to him."

The journey of Stephen towards becoming an artist is rooted in narcissism, and this truth is substantiated by the epiphany of the muse at the seaside in Chapter IV. The description of the girl on the beach, following the vision of the man with hawk-like features soaring towards the sun above the sea, is more intricate than any other, as it implies a multitude of emotional connections stemming from that brief glimpse. The sighting of this enigmatic, bird-like, and mythical figure solidifies Stephen's calling as an artist. It serves as a definitive message conveyed by the divine, a celestial emissary of both spiritual and earthly existence. In a state of romantic ecstasy, Stephen comprehends the essence of beauty and art, thus giving birth to the artist within him.

In Chapter V of "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man," Stephen yearns to encounter the "reality of experience" and invokes the mythical Daedalus to guide him in this pursuit. Furthermore, it is worth noting that several other epiphanies, such as the "tower of ivory," "house of gold," and "fetus," contribute to Stephen's growth and his journey as an artist. Consequently, it is justifiable to assert that epiphany is employed to explore both Stephen's world and Joyce's perspective as an artist in "A Portrait of the Artist As A Young Man."

Key Points Under Discussion

👉Epiphany: Key concept in Joyce's "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man," representing a sudden realization or revelation that profoundly impacts the protagonist's understanding of self and the world.

👉Stephen's Journey: The novel traces Stephen Dedalus' journey from childhood to adulthood, marked by a series of epiphanies that shape his artistic and intellectual development.

👉Religious Awakening: Stephen's epiphany regarding the limitations and constraints of organized religion leads him to reject his Catholic upbringing and search for his own artistic and spiritual path.

👉Artistic Calling: Through epiphanies, Stephen discovers his artistic vocation and realizes the importance of pursuing his creative passions, despite societal pressures and expectations.

👉Political Awakening: Stephen's epiphanies also extend to political ideologies, as he becomes aware of social injustices and seeks to challenge conventional norms through his art.

👉Freedom and Independence: Epiphanies liberate Stephen's mind and spirit, allowing him to break free from societal constraints and embrace personal freedom and individuality.

👉Language and Expression: Language becomes a tool for Stephen's epiphanies, enabling him to articulate his thoughts, emotions, and evolving worldview as he strives to find his unique voice as an artist.

👉Shifting Perspectives: Epiphanies challenge Stephen's preconceived notions and force him to reconsider his beliefs, resulting in a continual reevaluation of his identity and place in the world.

👉Emotional Growth: Epiphanies evoke intense emotional responses in Stephen, propelling him towards self-discovery, maturity, and a deeper understanding of the complexities of human experience.

👉Universal Significance: Joyce's use of epiphany in the novel extends beyond Stephen's personal journey, exploring broader themes of human existence, self-realization, and the power of transformative moments.

 Ardhendu De  

Ref: 

1. The Project Gutenberg eBook of A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, by James Joyce. (n.d.). The Project Gutenberg eBook of a Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, by James Joyce. https://www.gutenberg.org/files/4217/4217-h/4217-h.htm
2. Aspects of the Novel - Wikipedia. (n.d.). Aspects of the Novel - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspects_of_the_Novel

3.IGNOU Study Guide

  Now give short answer of the following questions:

a. What is the significance of the "seasoned hacking chestnut" in "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man"? What incident revolves around it?

b. What do the abbreviations 'A.M.D.G.' and 'L.D.S.' stand for in "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man"?

c. What does Father Arnal refer to as a "twofold enormity" in "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man"?

d. Why does Stephen go to Cork? What word in the Queen's College surprises him?

e. What leads to Heron beating Stephen on the night of Whitsuntide in "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man"?

f. What is the final entry in Stephen's diary in "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man"?

g. What is fictionalized autobiography, and can "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man" be considered an example of it?

h. Which myth is alluded to in the epigraph of "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man," and how is it connected to Stephen's development?

i. Discuss the significance of the opening section of "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man." Why is it important that Stephen's father tells him a story?

j. What are the three qualities of universal beauty mentioned in "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man"? Define and explain the first two qualities.

k. What is the Father Dolan affair in "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man," and what lesson does Stephen learn from it?

l. What incident prompts Stephen to write the poem "To E-C-" in "A Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man"? What is the subject matter of his poem?