in June of 1904, and celebrated man's reverence for seemingly mundane rituals. This is a study of a common man who possesses none of the characteristics of David or the mighty Hercules. Leopold Bloom does not possess the finely-chiseled features of Adonis, or the impressive heroism of Achilles. On the contrary, Leopold Bloom represents "Everyman," who is doing his best to survive in a world of adversity, while keeping his life and family intact. James Joyce has constructed a character who cannot be judged on the basis of his exterior. It is what lies within where his true measure is found. While the classical or Homeric literature was concerned with ideals, twentieth century literature placed primary emphasis on man. Leopold Bloom is well-aware of his shortcomings, and constantly struggles to become a better person. When confronted with his wife's infidelity, he vows to 'turn the other cheek,' lamenting "the futility of triumph or protest or vindication: the inanity of extolled virtue: the lethargy of nescient matter: the apathy of the stars" (Joyce). Modern-day protagonists often struggle to do the right thing. Leopold Bloom and Willy Loman were cut from this mold. They were far from perfect -- they were often embarrassments to their family. But both Leopold Bloom and Willy Loman were endearingly human beings who kept trying to get it right. They did not have the benefit of divine intervention, as did Homer's characters. They had to rely on themselves to persevere. In the end, Willy Loman grew tired of trying, but one gets the sense that Leopold Bloom would continue to hold his head high for as long as he lived. He was a Jew, but he also considered himself a nationalist who had just as much right to call himself Irish as did the Catholic majority. Yes, he could be rude and occasionally crude, but he was also loyal and demonstrated himself as capable of redemption. Leopold Bloom was no saint, but with warts and all, he was someone who i...
