James Joyce's Odysseus - Open Reading Circle

James Joyce's Odysseus (or Ulysses) is one of the central works of modernist prose. It mirrors Homer's Odyssey: the themes and characters of each episode are based on corresponding parts of the ancient epic. The open reading circle works through the text at two-week intervals - and since it is a substantial work, the circle will continue into the spring term of 2027.

The first meeting is on Monday, September 14 at 6 p.m., and it begins with a lecture on Joyce's other works - including Dubliners. At other meetings, the focus will be on Odysseus, 2-3 chapters at a time. The detailed programme will be presented at the first meeting. There will be no meetings during the autumn break (week 42).

Entry is free. You can also participate as a listener, even if you haven't read the book yet or haven't finished it. Any edition works. The book can be reserved from the Helsinki City Library (Helmet); if there are many reservations, it's worth trying other libraries through the Finna.fi database. The Workers' Institute library also has several works by Joyce, including some copies of Odysseus / Ulysses.