Faubourg Saint Patrice - ScholarsArchive at Oregon State University

econstructed out of my book" (Budgen 67-8). Through the realistic portrayal of
geography, folklore, tradition, history and characterization, Joyce reveals both the beauty
and the ugliness of his homeland. Through the dual perspective provided by Stephen's
and Bloom's thoughts and actions and the inundation of the physical manifestations of
the Church's presence, Ulysses reveals its powerful influence in Irish culture. While
Joyce's critique provides an insightful view into the overarching effects of the Church's
power, Ulysses carries a more universal message than strictly a criticism of Irish
Catholicism: it reveals the complexity, the ubiquity, and the apparent impenetrability of
the powers which form a culture. When asked by his friend Arthur Power why he
limited the scope of his writing to Ireland, Joyce responded: "For myself, I always write
about Dublin, because if I can get to the heart of Dublin I can get to the heart of all the
cities of the world. In the particular is contained the universal" (Ellmann, James Joyce
505). Indeed, Joyce's critique of Irish Catholicism is, in a larger context, a criticism of
the stifling of human possibilities through institutional forces and rigid dogma--powers
which he attempts to supplant with his own humanist orthodoxy. Stephen Dedalus, the
aspiring poet-priest, was unable to "forge in the smithy of his soul the uncreated
conscience of his race" because he was still harnessed by the forces of his culture.
Joyce, acting in the stead of his pinioned protagonist, attempted to create the "catholic"
conscience of "Faubourg Saint Patrice" by composing this masterpiece.
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