James Joyce

Free to visit

James Joyce was an internationally renowned Irish novelist and poet. There are plaques dedicated to him throughout Dublin on Clanbrassil Street, in Chapelizod, Ormond Quay and Merrion Square Gardens. The Martello Tower in Sandycove is a museum dedicated to his memory. His statue on North Earl Street is one of the signature sights of Dublin.

Born in Rathgar in 1882, the young Joyce was a brilliant student, becoming involved with the city's literary and theatrical circles while studying at University College Dublin. His first publication was an impassioned review of Ibsen's When We Dead Wake; Joyce was so struck by the play that he learned Norwegian to send a fan letter to the playwright!

Although he spent much of his adult life living abroad, Joyce placed Dublin at the centre of his writing, once remarking: "I always write about Dublin, because if I can get to the heart of Dublin I can get to the heart of all the cities of the world. In the particular is contained the universal."

Joyce's masterpiece "Ulysses" is celebrated every June 16th or Bloomsday in Dublin. The Museum of Literature of Ireland (MoLI) is located in Newman House where Joyce studied and his presence is felt throughout - and copy number one of Ulysses is displayed.

Learn more about James Joyce at the James Joyce Centre on North Great George's St in Dublin, or visit the James Joyce Tower and Museum in Sandycove (a 14-minute walk from the DART station).

Drop into Sweny's Chemist on Lincoln Place for daily readings from Joyce's works.