James Joyce: Ulysses / A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man

Columbia Critical Guides

by John Coyle (Editor)

This Columbia Critical Guide offers a thorough overview of the incredible wealth of criticism about these two masterpieces, as well as insights into Joyce's writing process and his literary sources―revealed by critics and artists who knew him personally. The volume explores the relationship between Ulysses and A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man and also examines how Joyce's successors have explained and venerated his work.

192 pages, Paperback

First published January 15, 1999

Reviews

[Vanessa M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This slim volume contains essays from the editor John Coyle as well as excerpts from critics, artists, friends, and colleagues of Joyce concerning both his A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man and Ulysses.

I read Portrait at the end of last year and have begun a rereading of Ulysses. I found that reading this between the two Joycean works was quite helpful in making comparisons and contrasts between the novels. It helps me to understand the symbolism's and theorems that those more astute and educated than me can put forth.

I've put in so many enigmas and puzzles that it will keep the professors busy for centuries arguing over what it meant, and that's the only way of ensuring one's immortality.

--James Joyce

[LiA · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spot on criticism, obviously we are talking about a masterpiece here. The theorical and symbolical aspect of the book is one of its greatest strength and incredibly fascinating. Columbia did a neat and meticulous job in presenting it.