A Painful Case

A Painful Case Questions and Answers

Discuss the theme of paralysis in the short story "A Painful Case" in Dubliners by James Joyce.

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In "A Painful Case," do you prefer to sympathize with Mr. Duffy or Mrs. Sinico?

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What is the main theme of "A Painful Case" and how do you describe that theme?

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What is Mr. Duffy's life like in "A Painful Case"? How did his refusal of Mrs. Sinico's advance lead to her demise? Is it ironic that a refusal to engage in adultery lead to tragedy?

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What is the background of "The Painful Case?"

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How does James Joyce describe the city in "A Painful Case"?

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