Refer to Explorations in Literature for a complete version of this story.

Question

In "Araby," James Joyce uses many archetypal images: the innocent youth, the mysterious female, and the distracted adult.

How does the mysterious female affect the meaning of the story?

Responses

Accepting the female's lack of interest is the protagonist's main obstacle.
Accepting the female's lack of interest is the protagonist's main obstacle.

Dealing with the youth's emotions toward the female slows the pace of the story.
Dealing with the youth's emotions toward the female slows the pace of the story.

Buying the female a gift despite interference results in a satisfying ending.
Buying the female a gift despite interference results in a satisfying ending.

Seeking to understand the female is the protagonist's unattainable goal.
Seeking to understand the female is the protagonist's unattainable goal.

Answer 1

Choosing "Seeking to understand the female is the protagonist's unattainable goal" is the most accurate response. In "Araby," the protagonist is infatuated with the mysterious female and spends much of the story fantasizing about her and trying to impress her. However, his attempts to connect with her and gain her affection are doomed to fail, as she ultimately shows no interest in him. This highlights the protagonist's naivety and romantic idealism, as well as the harsh reality of unrequited love.