Table of ContentsIntroductionCharacter Analysis of Gabriel ConroyConclusionIntroductionIn James Joyce's iconic short story "The Dead," readers are invited to navigate a lively, yet monotonous, dinner party through the eyes of the protagonist, Gabriel Conroy. Gabriel, an intriguingly complex character, is portrayed as an intelligent but impersonal introvert, seemingly lost in his own thoughts more often than he is mentally present in the situations unfolding around him. In this essay, we will delve deeper into the character of Gabriel, particularly his pronounced tendency to overthink, as well as the crucial role of the antagonists and the omniscient narrator in bringing his inner turmoil to light. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayCharacter Analysis of Gabriel ConroyThe character of Gabriel Conroy is central to the narrative of “The Dead,” and his psychological state of “ paralysis” is a recurring theme. Eric Rapp, in his critical essay on the story, astutely observes that "throughout most of the story, it is clear that Gabriel is trapped in his own self-consciousness" (Rapp, 2002). This self-awareness is embodied in Gabriel's interactions with various antagonists throughout the story, highlighting his over-thinking nature. Antagonists in literature serve the purpose of inciting conflict within the plot, moving the story forward, and revealing facets of the protagonist's character that might otherwise remain hidden. Ms. Molly Ivors, an antagonist of "The Dead", plays a central role in the catalyst for Gabriel's internal conflict. As an Irish nationalist and close colleague of Gabriel, Molly confronts him at her aunts' Christmas party, revealing his association with a politically oriented newspaper that promotes British thought, which greatly contradicts her own beliefs. Their playful but contentious exchange reveals Gabriel's inner turmoil: "'Oh, to tell you the truth,' Gabriel suddenly retorted, 'I'm sick of my own country, I'm sick of it...'" (Joyce 129 ). This statement, spoken in the heat of the moment, reflects Gabriel's embarrassment and agitation, intensified when Molly playfully whispers "West Briton!" » in his ear. Gabriel's mind continues to linger on this encounter long after Molly has left, emphasizing his propensity for obsessive analysis: "Was she sincere? Did she really have a life of her own behind all her propaganda? He didn't There had never been any hard feelings between them until night. It irritated him to think that she would be at the dinner table, looking at him while he spoke with her critical, questioning eyes. she would not be sorry to see him fail in his speech” (Joyce 131). the playful teasing triggers Gabriel's overly analytical tendencies, causing him to dwell excessively on the situation, even after she leaves the party. Through this, readers gain insight into Gabriel's propensity to think and dissect every situation, especially those that challenge his ego. Additionally, the omniscient narrator, particularly the use of limited third-person narration, allows readers to delve deeper into Gabriel's inner thoughts. , motivations and character traits. Gabriel frequently retreats into his own mind as a coping mechanism when faced with conflict. This mental refuge allows him to examine situations and analyze the smallest details in an attempt to decipher the thoughts and opinions of those around him. For example, after his aunts' dinner, Gabriel observes his wife, Gretta, mysteriously contemplating the distant noise !, 61(4), 631-653.