James Joyce, A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, serves as a psychological look at the maturation that occurs in children as they constantly absorb different elements of life Stephen Dedalus represents what most boys experience growing up, and his struggles and triumphs serve as an ideal example for the bildungsroman genre, among the novel's many themes, the. Joyce's inclusion of vivid imagery and sensory details provides an enhanced reader. It is important to note his use of imagery to mature Stephen's character throughout the novel, and how they influence Stephen's behavior as he matures. he explores his sexuality, struggles to accept religion, and attempts to understand his calling in life beyond school The story told in A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, centers on Stephen Dedalus, a. a young Irish schoolboy of the early 20th century, Joyce offers his reader a first-hand perspective into the mind of protagonist Stephen. From his childhood to his early twenties, Stephen undergoes many personality changes that mimic what every human being goes through growing up. Joyce makes Stephen's case different by incorporating countless influences into his life, including Stephen's father, pervasive thoughts about sex, moocows, and fiery sermons condemning sinners for their evil deeds. Eventually, Stephen must explain what he desires in life other than his natural impulses and the need to appease the religious part of his psyche. For much of the novel, Stephen struggles with the urges of sexuality and must immerse himself in his innate adolescent feelings. His meeting with a prostitute in... middle of paper ......e decision in the future, after he realizes that the priesthood is not for him. Joyce finally gives Stephen's character a strong psychological state in order to overcome his problems and move beyond the once ostentatious idea of ​​living for others instead of living for himself. A portrait of the artist as a young man has his peculiarities throughout, but James Joyce manages to present a complete transformation through random thoughts and images. Stephen Dedalus embodies the coming of age story with his desires to commit sinful acts, while trying to remain pious in order to pursue his dream of becoming a priest. The use of imagery and symbolism throughout the novel serves as a reliable means of maturation, without convoluting the overall theme with indecipherable meanings. Works Cited Joyce, James. A portrait of the artist as a young man. London: Penguin Books, 1993.