EVELINE

In fact, Eveline has not received any love or care from his father and has grown
up to a timid and antisocial. Eveline’s relationship with her father is based on fear as
her father has begun to “threaten her” after her mother’s death (2-3) and did not treat
her the same as her brothers. That is, Eveline has not received any love or care from
his father and has grown up to a timid and antisocial young woman who “feels herself
in danger of her father's violence”. Therefore, she becomes an obedient daughter in the
extreme out of fear from her father’s violence “feels herself in danger of her father's
violence” that she barely leaves home except for work.
SYMBOLS
Regarding symbols, the window represents the difference between the reality
that she lives in and the new life she dreams about. Dust represents monotony,
repetition -> She cleans her house regularly, but it does not matter how many times ->
dust always come back -> analogy to her miserable and boring life. Water-> signifies
freedom, which made E to be scared and uncomfortable with her decision of running
away. She has struggled in psychology between desire about new life full of love, care,
and lac of restrictioms,and she doubts her choice as her father’s unkindness and her
mother’s words cripple her decisions.0

She is depicted as an anxious young woman, scared, timid and terrified by what
is happening in her life such as her fathers' brutality and violent nature towards her.
The story of Eveline revolves around the theme of escape where she dreams of a new
and better life but her past, which she is clinging so much to, is impeding her.
She would like the kind of treatment with respect anywhere she went and
when planning her future, she would like to explore life with Frank. (F)
She is indecisive between the decision of leaving to a new home and
leaving behind all the familiar things she never thought before such as old sick
father.
free her from the chains of oppression entangling her life.
1/ Why did Eveline want to leave her home (3)

- A desire for a exciting life

- An escape from oppressive father, the hope of fimg true love
- Recalls the exciting plans she mafe lover F, envisioning a life of adventure and
happiness away from the monotony of her current existence
 She endured a confined and suffocated life and be bound in by the
responsibility and obligation to take care of family. “She had hard work to keep the
house together and to see that the two young children who had been left to her
charge went to school regularly and got their meals regularly”. She finds herself
devoid of her own life, yearning to escape the monotony of her current existence.
She wanted to escape her abusive, authoritarian, and oppressive father. She
always lived in oppression and palpitations because of suffering her father violence.
“Although she was over 19, she sometimes felt herself in danger of her father’s
violence”. He had begun to threaten her and say what he would do to her only for her
dead mother’s sake”. It seems all of the important people in Eveline’ s life had died or
left, so no one protected her so “now she had nobody to protect her. Moreover, her
father always criticized her and “he said she used to squander the money”, so he forced
her to give him entire her wages. This harsh treatment leaves her desperately seeking
an escape, a chance at a new life where “people would treat her with respect”.
Her overwhelming desire for leave her house, especially heightened upon
encountering and falling in love with Frank – a sailor. She was fascinated by the story
and the songs he hummed. “He told her the names of the ships and the names of the
different services as well as some adventure stories. She dreamed of becoming his wife
and having a happy life with him in Buenos Ayres. Frank was like a breath of fresh air
blowing into her boring life, sowing a seed of new life in the young girl's seemingly
dead soul. As the result, she envisioned a life of adventure and happiness away from
the monotony of her current existence
2/ Eveline's home is full of dust. What does it symbolize?
The dust in Eveline's home symbolizes not only stagnation and decay but also the
profound lifelessness
(. It represents the lifelessness and inertia that characterize her current situation.
The dust settles on everything, emphasizing the lack of movement and the stifling
atmosphere that surrounds Eveline.)
This omnipresent layer of dust becomes a metaphor, highlighting the the stillness
and lack of forward momentum in Eveline's life. It accumulates on every surface,
clinging to objects and surfaces like a tangible reminder of the unresolved issues
and emotional entanglements that define her present circumstances.
The settling of dust symbolizes familial expectations that hang heavily in the air,
emblematic of the lingering past that refuses to dissipate, trapping Eveline in a state
of emotional paralysis.
3/ What do the familiar objects symbolize?
- The familiar objects in Eveline's home, such as the photograph of her mother
and the yellowing letters, symbolize her past and the emotional ties that bind
her to her family. These objects serve as a reminder of her responsibilities and
the conflicts within her, contributing to her internal struggle
- Contribute to the overall thematic richness of the story.
- From the dusty pic frames to the worn-out carpet, symbolize the weight of
tradition, the entanglement of familial expectations, and the inertia that
characterizes Eveline's life.
- For Eveline, the well-worn carpet beneath her feet becomes emblematic of the
familiar path she treads daily —a path dictated by societal norms and familial
obligations, or in other words, reflects the repetitive nature of her life, marked
by the same duties + responsibilities.
- The clock on the mantelpiece, for instance, represents the relentless passage of
time

Dusty Picture Frames:

- Symbolism: The dusty picture frames in Eveline's home represent the

preservation of familial memories. However, the layer of dust suggests neglect
or a reluctance to actively engage with these memories. It symbolizes the
unresolved issues and emotional entanglements connected to her family.

Worn-out Carpet:

- Symbolism: The worn-out carpet beneath Eveline's feet symbolizes the well-
trodden path of her daily life. Its worn nature reflects the repetitive and
predictable nature of her existence, marked by societal expectations and familial
obligations.

Clock on the Mantelpiece:

- Symbolism: The clock represents the relentless passage of time and the pressure
Eveline feels to conform to societal expectations. It adds a sense of urgency to
her decision-making process, highlighting the limited time she has to choose
between the familiar and the unknown.

Brass Top of the Fender:

- Symbolism: The brass top of the fender is a symbol of warmth and

containment. It reflects the dichotomy Eveline faces between the comfort
derived from the familiar (warmth) and the desire for a different, more fulfilling
life (breaking out of containment).
 Letter to Her Brother Harry:

- Symbolism: The letter to her brother symbolizes communication and

connection with her distant family. However, its mention also underscores the
emotional distance and potential estrangement from family members,
contributing to the theme of isolation.

Two Photographs on the Wall:

- Symbolism: The two photographs on the wall represent the presence of family
members. The fact that there are only two suggests a limited family unit,
emphasizing the weight of familial expectations and the emotional ties that bind
Eveline to her home.

Iron Cast of the Fireplace:

- Symbolism: The iron cast of the fireplace adds to the domestic imagery,
symbolizing both warmth and containment. It ties into the theme of the home as
a place of comfort but also restriction.

Chairs Set Out for Visitors:

- Symbolism: The chairs set out for visitors imply a semblance of hospitality and
routine social interactions. However, in the context of Eveline's decision to
leave, it highlights the potential rupture in these social ties and the breaking of
established norms.
-

4/ Water is both a positive and a negative symbol-explain.

Water in "Eveline" functions as both a positive and negative symbol. On one hand,
it represents the promise of a new life and adventure, as seen in Eveline's memories
of her family's trips to the sea. On the other hand, water becomes a source of fear
and paralysis, reflecting her anxiety about the unknown and her inability to break
free from her past. The dual nature of water in the story reflects Eveline's internal
conflict, torn between the desire for a fresh start and the fear of the unfamiliar,
encapsulating the complexity of her decision-making process

5/ What made Eveline stay in Dublin

Eveline ultimately stays in Dublin due to fear and a sense of duty. The fear of the
unknown, represented by the uncertain future with Frank, and her sense of duty to
her family and the memory of her deceased mother, compel her to choose the
familiar but stifling life in Dublin over the unknown possibilities elsewhere.
James Joyce's "Eveline" is influenced by a complex interplay of familial ties,
societal expectations, and a deep-seated fear of the unknown.
One significant factor is Eveline's sense of duty and responsibility towards her
family, especially in the aftermath of her mother's death. “Her father was becoming
old lately, he would miss her
The burden of familial obligations, embodied in her promise to her dying mother to
"keep the home together as long as she could," becomes a powerful force that
anchors her to Dublin.
6/ "Damn Italians, coming over here". Who said that? What does this show about
his character?
. The statement "Damn Italians, coming over here" is uttered by Eveline's father.
This remark reflects his xenophobic and narrow-minded character. It suggests a
resistance to change and a lack of tolerance for outsiders, emphasizing the
oppressive atmosphere in Eveline's home

7/ Give an example of an oxymoron. What does it show about Eveline

An example of an oxymoron in "Eveline" is the phrase "hard softness." This is used
to describe the palms of Eveline's hands as she grips the iron railing. The
oxymoron conveys the conflicting emotions within Eveline—her inner struggle
between the hardness of her decision and the softness of her emotional
attachments.
In "Eveline," the oxymoron "hard softness" is a nuanced descriptor of the palms of
Eveline's hands as she clings to the iron railing, symbolizing a profound inner
conflict. The juxtaposition of "hard" and "softness" captures the complexity of
Eveline's emotions and the internal struggle she faces. The hardness in her
decision-making process is represented by the firm grip on the railing, signifying
her determination and the stark reality of the choice before her. This hardness
reflects the challenging nature of the decision she must make—whether to leave the
familiar or stay within the confines of her current life.

On the other hand, the term "softness" hints at the emotional aspect of Eveline's
turmoil. It suggests a tenderness, an attachment to her past, family, and the known.
The softness conveys the emotional weight she carries, the sentimental ties that
make her decision fraught with conflicting feelings. The iron railing becomes a
symbolic link between the firm resolve to break away and the emotional
attachments that tether her to her present life.

Expanding on this oxymoron, it becomes evident that the "hard softness" not only
characterizes Eveline's hands but extends to her internal struggles. The duality of
the phrase encapsulates the dichotomy she faces—between the tough exterior
required for decisive action and the emotional vulnerability inherent in leaving
behind what is familiar. This oxymoron, therefore, serves as a powerful linguistic
device that encapsulates the complexity of Eveline's internal conflict and the
tension between the rational and emotional dimensions of her decision.

In summary, the oxymoron "hard softness" in "Eveline" offers a rich portrayal of

the protagonist's emotional turmoil. It vividly illustrates the intricate balance
between determination and emotional attachment, providing readers with insight
into the complexity of Eveline's character and the challenges inherent in the
choices she confronts.
8/ . Why did the writer include so many flashbacks in the story. What do they
reveal about Eveline?
. The numerous flashbacks in the story provide insight into Eveline's past and
reveal the emotional conflicts that shape her present dilemma. These glimpses into
her memories help readers understand Eveline's relationships with her family,
particularly her father, and the impact of her mother's death. The flashbacks
contribute to the depth of Eveline's character and illuminate the internal forces
influencing her decision to stay in Dublin
1st Flashback: Kids are playing int the field
(Memories of Childhood and Playing in the Field:

The story includes flashbacks to Eveline's childhood, depicting moments of joy and
simplicity, such as playing in the field.)
Fb to working + giving her money to the family
Fb to when their father was putting on their mothers bonnet to make them laugh
(She had been laid up for a day. He had read her out a ghost story and made toast
for her at thr fire. They had all gone for picnic to the Hill of Howth
1/ In what way was Eveline similar to her mother?
Eveline was similar to her mother in the sense that she took on a caretaking role
within the family. Even after her mother's death, Eveline became responsible for
her siblings and took on the duties her mother once held, reflecting a continuity of
roles within the family.

- Firstly, Eveline inherits a sense of duty and responsibility from her mother. The
flashback to Eveline's promise to her dying mother—to "keep the home
together as long as she could"—underscores the weight of familial obligations
that both women carry.
-

2/ . Eveline made the mistake of her life by not going with Frank. Discuss.
. Eveline's decision not to go with Frank is considered a significant mistake
because it represents a missed opportunity for a new and better life. Frank offers
her the chance to escape the stifling and oppressive environment in Dublin, yet
Eveline, influenced by fear and a sense of duty, chooses to stay. This decision is
seen as a crucial error that hinders her potential for happiness and personal
fulfillment

3/ . Did you think Eveline would go with Frank to another country? Explain
. The story provides subtle hints that Eveline might not go with Frank. Her internal
struggles, fear of the unknown, and the weight of her responsibilities to her family
create a sense of doubt regarding her ability to make such a drastic change. The
story's tone and Eveline's inner turmoil foreshadow the likelihood of her staying in
Dublin.
4/ How was Eveline influenced by the memory of her mother's death?
Eveline is profoundly influenced by the memory of her mother's death, which left a
void in her life and contributed to her sense of duty and responsibility. The
memory of her mother's sufferings and sacrifices serves as a powerful force
shaping Eveline's decisions and preventing her from pursuing personal happiness.
5/ Why is the word home repeated in the story?
The repetition of the word "home" in the story emphasizes Eveline's internal
conflict and the significance of the concept of home in her decision-making. It
underscores the tension between the comfort of the familiar (home in Dublin) and
the potential for a new home with Frank in another country.
6/ Why did Eveline's father dislike Frank
Eveline's father dislikes Frank, partly due to xenophobia and a resistance to
outsiders. He disapproves of Frank's foreign background, reflecting societal
prejudices of the time. Eveline's father's disapproval contributes to Eveline's
internal conflict and influences her decision to stay.
7/ . Why did Eveline feel so tired?
. Eveline feels tired due to the emotional and psychological burden she carries. The
responsibilities and expectations placed on her shoulders, combined with the
stifling atmosphere of her home, contribute to her mental and emotional exhaustion
8/ . What made Eveline date Frank
Eveline dated Frank because he represented an escape from her mundane and
oppressive life in Dublin. Frank offered the promise of a new and exciting future,
providing a contrast to Eveline's routine existence. The desire for change and
adventure influenced her decision to date Frank
9/ How was Eveline different from her mother in her views of women's roles?
Eveline differs from her mother in her views of women's roles by considering the
possibility of breaking away from traditional expectations. While her mother
adhered to societal norms, Eveline contemplates a more independent and
adventurous life with Frank, challenging the conventional roles assigned to women
in her society
10/ She stood up in a sudden impulse of terror. Escape! She must escape! What in
the story prepares us for Eveline's actions
The phrase "She stood up in a sudden impulse of terror. Escape! She must escape!"
is prepared for by Eveline's internal struggles throughout the story. The hints of
fear, the consideration of the unknown, and the weight of familial duties all
contribute to Eveline's increasing desperation and the eventual impulse to escape,
underscoring the internal conflicts that lead to this decisive moment in the narrative
THEMES
Paralysis and Inertia:
The theme of paralysis runs throughout the narrative, reflecting the stagnation and
inability to break free from the constraints of Eveline's life. Whether influenced by
family duties, societal expectations, or fear of the unknown, Eveline finds herself
emotionally and psychologically paralyzed, preventing her from making a life-
altering decision
Escape and Freedom: The desire for escape and freedom is a central theme.
Eveline yearns for a life beyond the familiar but is trapped by her responsibilities
and the weight of her past. The possibility of leaving with Frank represents a
chance at liberation, yet her internal conflicts and fears hinder her from realizing
this aspiration. Duty and Responsibility: The theme of duty and responsibility is
prominent, particularly in Eveline's sense of obligation to her family. Her mother's
death intensifies these duties, creating a moral and emotional bind that influences
her decision-making. The tension between personal desires and familial obligations
highlights the internal struggle Eveline faces.
Memory and Nostalgia: Memory plays a significant role in Eveline's internal
conflict. Her memories of family trips to the sea and the influence of her mother's
sacrifices shape her present dilemma. The nostalgia for the past becomes both a
source of comfort and a hindrance, impacting Eveline's ability to embrace change.
Fear and Uncertainty: Fear, especially the fear of the unknown, is a pervasive
theme. Eveline's apprehensions about leaving her familiar surroundings, venturing
into an uncertain future with Frank, and confronting the unfamiliar contribute to
the internal conflict. The story explores how fear can be a powerful force inhibiting
personal growth and change.
Gender Roles and Expectations: The story touches on traditional gender roles and
societal expectations placed on women. Eveline is caught between conforming to
the expected roles of a daughter and a caretaker or pursuing a more independent
and adventurous life. The theme reflects the limited options and societal constraints
faced by women in the early 20th century.
TONE + MOOD
The tone is somber and contemplative, reflecting the serious nature of Eveline's
internal conflict. The language used by Joyce carries a weight, creating an
atmosphere of heaviness and introspection. Eveline's contemplation of leaving her
home and the complex emotions tied to her decision give the story a tone of
melancholy. There is a sense of sadness as she grapples with the prospect of
leaving her family and familiar surroundings, as well as the fear of the unknown
→ Allow readers to feel the quiet intensity of Eveline's struggle.
The mood in "Eveline" is characterized by a mixture of gloom and uncertainty.
The story creates a mood of stagnation and unfulfilled potential as Eveline faces
the dilemma of whether to stay in her familiar but stifling life or embark on a
journey into the unknown with her lover, Frank. The mood becomes more poignant
as Eveline reflects on her memories and the sacrifices made by her mother. There is
an underlying tension in the mood, especially as Eveline stands on the precipice of
a life-changing decision
→ Convey the complex emotions and the weight of choices in Eveline's life
EXPOSITION