26 pages 52 minutes read

James Joyce

The Dead

Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1914

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In “The Dead,” from James Joyce’s Dubliners, Gabriel and Gretta Conroy attend a party hosted by Gabriel's aunts. As the evening progresses, Gabriel engages in conversations, delivers a speech on Irish hospitality, and reflects on his interactions. The night takes a poignant turn when Gretta reminisces about a former love, leading Gabriel to profound realizations about life and human connections.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Dead by James Joyce receives acclaim for its intricate narrative and evocative portrayal of Irish society, rich with symbolism and depth. Critics praise its masterful prose and emotional resonance. However, some find its pacing slow and the story's subtlety potentially challenging for casual readers. Overall, Joyce's novella is celebrated as a profound literary masterpiece.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Dead?

A reader who would enjoy The Dead by James Joyce is likely someone who appreciates introspective and character-driven narratives. They may enjoy the introspection of Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway or the rich, symbolic detail in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. This reader values themes of identity, memory, and social critique.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Love

Values/Ideas: Loyalty & Betrayal

Values/Ideas: Music

Topics

Grief / Death

Relationships

Education

Genre

Education

Irish Literature

Classic Fiction