IndexIntroductionCharacter Analysis of Gabriel ConroyConclusionIntroductionIn James Joyce's iconic short story "The Dead," readers are invited to navigate an eventful, yet monotonous dinner party through the eyes of the protagonist, Gabriel Conroy. Gabriel, a character of intriguing complexity, is described as an intelligent but impersonal introvert, seemingly lost in thought more often than he is mentally present in the situations unfolding around him. In this essay we will delve into Gabriel's character, particularly his marked tendency to overthink, and 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 Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Character Analysis of Gabriel Conroy The 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 "through much of the story, it is clear that Gabriel is trapped in his own self-consciousness" (Rapp, 2002). This self-awareness is epitomized in Gabriel's interactions with various antagonists throughout the story, shedding light on his thoughtful nature. Antagonists in literature serve the purpose of inciting conflict within the plot, pushing the story forward and revealing aspects of the protagonist's character that might otherwise remain hidden. Mrs. Molly Ivors, an antagonist of "The Dead", plays a vital role in catalyzing Gabriel's internal conflict. Being an Irish nationalist and close colleague of Gabriel, Molly confronts him at her aunts' Christmas party, revealing her association with a politically oriented newspaper promoting British thought, which greatly contradicts her beliefs. Their playful yet contentious exchange highlights Gabriel's inner turmoil: "'Oh, to tell you the truth,' Gabriel suddenly retorted, 'I'm sick of my country, sick of it...'" (Joyce 129) . This statement, uttered in the heat of the moment, reflects Gabriel's embarrassment and agitation, intensified when Molly jokingly whispers "West Briton!" in his ear. Gabriel's mind continues to dwell on this meeting long after Molly's departure, highlighting his propensity for obsessive analysis: "Was she sincere? Did she really have a life of her own behind all her propaganda? There had never been bad feelings between them up to that point." Night. It made him nervous to think that she would be at the table, watching him as he spoke with her critical, questioning eyes. Maybe she wouldn't have minded seeing 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 they gain great insight into Gabriel's penchant for reflecting on and analyzing every situation, especially those that challenge his ego. Furthermore, the omniscient narrator, in particular, the use of limited third-person narration, allows readers to delve deeper into the thoughts. Gabriel's interior, motivations and character traits. Gabriel often retreats into his mind as a coping mechanism when faced with conflict. This mental retreat allows him to scrutinize situations and analyze the smallest details in an attempt to decipher thoughts and emotions opinions of those around him. For example, after his aunts' dinner, Gabriel observes his wife Gretta, who stares mysteriously at the distant sound of music. Struck by this image, he tries to attract her!, 61(4), 631-653.