Published in 1914 within the collection of 15 short stories, known as Dubliners, "The Dead" is the final installment of the series and one of the most acclaimed English short stories of the 20th century. While the characters of Joyce's world weave in and out of various stories and novels with startlingly accurate realism, it is not necessary to read the stories of Dubliners in order. One can simply read one or a random selection as they are relatively independent of each other.
Student Testimonials
"Joyce's 'The Dead' was an astounding short story from the never-ending dinner party to where Gretta confessed her love for a now-dead lover and how in that moment Gabriel's life was completely changed by the dead who were now living in his memories." ~ Baylee O.
"During our unit focusing on 'The Dead', I found that it was reassuring to see a famous author use writing as a form of therapy, even if he refused to acknowledge this. Joyce substituted his wife and himself for the main characters Gretta and Gabriel to explore his fears of the unknown. It inspires me to use writing as an outlet for pent-up emotions and fears." ~ Sarah B.
"'The Dead' challenges readers to identify morals and lessons taught by Joyce. It helps to focus the readers' attention on their interactions with the world around them." ~ Adler M.
"During our unit focusing on 'The Dead', I found that it was reassuring to see a famous author use writing as a form of therapy, even if he refused to acknowledge this. Joyce substituted his wife and himself for the main characters Gretta and Gabriel to explore his fears of the unknown. It inspires me to use writing as an outlet for pent-up emotions and fears." ~ Sarah B.
"'The Dead' challenges readers to identify morals and lessons taught by Joyce. It helps to focus the readers' attention on their interactions with the world around them." ~ Adler M.
