Self-knowledge And Characterization

The thesis is an attempt to explore the relationship between the intellectual development of James Joyce and the characterization of Bloom in Ulysses. By introducing C. H. Peake's moral vision theory, it focuses its reading on the successful characterization of Bloom in Ulysses from a biographical standpoint. The characterization of Bloom, a milestone of Joyce's artistic climax, is also of symbolic importance for Joyce: a symbol of progressive intellectual development of Joyce. In the characterization of Bloom, it exemplifies in the degree, range and coherence of Joyce's moral vision in Ulysses. By depicting Bloom, Joyce had his introspection as an artist after years of family life. Our artist also got new inspiration for his future. Basing on such exploration, this thesis is also arranged to have a further analysis on the underlying positive elements contributing to Joyce's intellectual maturation, which benefits the understanding of the relationship between the intellectual development of Joyce and the characterization of Bloom.