Noise in the “Aeolus” Episode in Joyce’s Ulysses: An Exploration of Acoustic Modernity

Abstract

This article delves into the intricate connections between noise and the socio-historical contexts within James Joyce’s Ulysses. The focal point is the Aeolus episode, which vividly depicts the auditory landscape of 1904 Dublin. Rather than focusing on clear technological transitions, Joyce accentuates the deepening of historical appreciation via modern sonic experiences. Joyce weaves a narrative that echoes the prevailing spirit of the state. His portrayal evokes a sense of a waning epoch, setting the grandeur of ancient Greece against the present-day stagnation and gloom of Dublin. Ultimately, this aural cultural historical design highlights Joyce’s sonorous narrative that exemplifies his drive to depict history with multifaceted depth.

Keywords

• modernism
• noise
• james joyce
• ulysses
• prosody