Clay

Describe the moments in the story where it is clear Maria is conflicted internally but presenting differently externally.

The matron of the laundry calls Maria a “peace-maker.” What evidence is there in the story to support this label? Are there also moments in the story that seem to refute this label?

Joyce’s father had an alcohol addiction and there is evidence that Joyce himself struggled with alcohol misuse. Does this affect how drinking is portrayed in the story? Use specific examples in the text to support your answer.

What role does music play in the story? Describe the placement of music in the text as well as lyrics. What is the significance that Maria mistakenly sings the same verse of her song twice?

Find at least three instances in the story where other characters dictate Maria’s actions and explore the circumstances. What do these instances show the reader about Maria?

The stories included in Dubliners have often been described as stories of stagnation. Does this description fit “Clay”? If so, provide evidence that illustrates stagnation and immovability. If not, locate specific passages that refute this description.

Joyce called his stories “epiphanies.” Research the word epiphany. Does epiphany play a role in “Clay”? Support your answer with specific evidence from the text and background reading.

The word “clay” never appears in this short story yet provides its title. Why do you think that Joyce titled the story “Clay”? What significance does this word have to the events and characters of the story? Be sure to consider not only clay as a literal object but also as a metaphor.