Araby By James Joyce Mla Citation

Araby: A Critical Exploration and MLA Citation

James Joyce's "Araby," a poignant short story from his Dubliners collection, transcends its seemingly simple narrative to explore themes of adolescent longing, disillusionment, and the limitations of a stifling environment. This article will delve into key aspects of the story, providing critical analysis and concluding with proper MLA citation guidelines.

Meta Description: Explore the themes, symbolism, and critical interpretations of James Joyce's "Araby," along with a complete guide on how to cite the story using MLA format. Perfect for students and literature enthusiasts.

The Crushing Weight of Dublin: Setting and Atmosphere

The story's setting, a nameless street in Dublin, is far from incidental. Joyce masterfully paints a picture of paralysis and stagnation, mirroring the protagonist's internal struggles. The dusty, neglected streets and the atmosphere of quiet desperation reflect the boy's own feelings of confinement and yearning for escape. The imagery of decay, such as the "brown, dilapidated houses," establishes a sense of bleakness that foreshadows the narrative's climax. The recurring motif of darkness further emphasizes the suffocating nature of the protagonist's reality. This setting is crucial for understanding the boy's desperate search for something – anything – more.

The Allure of Romance and the Idealization of Mangan's Sister

The unnamed narrator's infatuation with Mangan's sister serves as the central driving force of the plot. His idealized vision of her is a powerful representation of romantic idealism and the intoxicating power of first love. Notice how the descriptions of Mangan's sister are heavily filtered through the lens of the boy's intense, almost worshipful, admiration. This idealized image contrasts sharply with the reality of the mundane Dublin setting, highlighting the chasm between the boy's romantic fantasies and the stark limitations of his world. The unattainability of this idealized love fuels his desperate quest for a gift from Araby.

The Journey to Araby: A Symbolic Quest

The journey to Araby itself becomes a significant symbol. It's not merely a physical journey to a bazaar; it's a symbolic representation of the boy's spiritual and emotional quest for enlightenment and fulfillment. The delays and obstacles he encounters—the uncle's tardiness, the crowded streets—symbolize the numerous impediments to achieving his romantic aspirations. This journey underscores the often-disappointing reality that confronts youthful idealism. The eventual anticlimactic arrival at a deserted and underwhelming bazaar represents the shattering of his dreams and the painful realization that his idealized vision was ultimately a delusion.

Disillusionment and the Bitter Taste of Reality

The final scene at Araby, with its chaotic crowds and the bazaar's closure, is devastating. The anticipated magic and romance are replaced with harsh reality and profound disillusionment. The narrator's epiphany—a sudden, piercing understanding of the futility of his romantic pursuit—marks a pivotal moment in his development. The story concludes with a powerful sense of loss and the lingering awareness that the idealized image he had constructed was ultimately unattainable. This disillusionment, however, is a crucial step in his maturation process.

MLA Citation for "Araby"

To cite "Araby" in your paper using MLA format, follow this example:

Joyce, James. "Araby." Dubliners, Vintage Books, 1992, pp. 112-122.

This citation assumes you're using a 1992 Vintage Books edition. Adjust the page numbers and publishing information to reflect the specific edition you consulted. Remember to include the citation in your Works Cited page at the end of your paper. If using an online version, include the URL and access date.

This comprehensive analysis should provide a strong foundation for understanding and appreciating the complexities of James Joyce's "Araby." Remember to further your research by exploring critical essays and interpretations to gain a deeper appreciation for this iconic short story.