Faubourg Saint Patrice - ScholarsArchive at Oregon State University

parallels the transformation of the body from death to resurrection, thus revealing
Bloom's conflicting thoughts.
Later, as he attempts to meet Cunningham to contribute to the fund for Dignam's
family, Bloom's marginality is brought to a dangerous level when confronted by
xenophobic nationalism of the citizen in "Cyclops." Bloom's alienation because of his
Jewish heritage is one of the primary themes of Ulysses, and the most significant
manifestation of this prejudice occurs in Barney Kiernan's pub, as Joyce focuses his satire
on the aggressive nationalism which reached a nadir during the height of the Gaelic
Revival. While this episode highlights Bloom's alienation from his own culture, it also
demonstrates his humanity, which is in direct contrast to the violent myopia with which
he is confronted. In discussing his protagonist with Budgen, Joyce revealed his intention
to create a foil for the other Dubliners: "Bloom's justness and reasonableness should
grow in interest. As the day wears on Bloom should overshadow them all" (Budgen
116). Indeed, these characteristics are brought to the forefront in "Cyclops," as the
cruelty of the other characters sets off his kindness and humanity which have been
demonstrated throughout the previous episodes. This is most saliently displayed in the
discussion between Bloom, John Wyse, and the citizen about nationalism, as Bloom
exclaims: "Persecution. . .all the history of the world is full of it. Perpetuating national
hatred among nations"(12.1417-8). And again, Bloom argues: "But it's no use. .
.Force, hatred, history and all that. That's not life for men and women, insult and hatred.
And everybody knows that it's the very opposite of that that is really life" (12.1481-3).
The citizen responds to Bloom's humane perspective by self-righteously using religion as
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