A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man

James Joyce traces Stephen Dedalus from childhood to artistic self-assertion in a modern novel of language, conscience, faith, and ambition.

At a glance A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man follows Stephen Dedalus through childhood… James Joyce makes development itself the subject: the novel’s language shifts as… Why read A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man today? The novel remains one of the most accessible entrances into Joyce while still carrying…

What kind of classic is it?

About this book Stephen Dedalus grows toward artistic independence through childhood impressions, spiritual crisis, and rebellion against inherited authority.