An Irish-Jewish Politician, Joyce's Dublin, and "Ulysses: The Life and Times of Albert L. Altman

Neil Davison's book explores how Albert Altman, a forgotten historical figure, influenced James Joyce's writing, particularly in creating the character of Leopold Bloom and addressing themes of race, nationalism, and empire. Altman, a Jewish businessman and Irish nationalist, experienced double marginalization and was active in municipal politics. His prominence in Home Rule circles connected him to Joyce and his father. Davison's book sheds light on Irish and Jewish identity and culture in Joyce's Dublin, highlighting the influence of Altman's career on the Dubliners story.

Format: Hardback
Length: 294 pages
Publication date: 06 December 2022
Publisher: University Press of Florida

In his captivating book,Neil Davison delves into the intriguing life and profound influence of Albert Altman (1853–1903), a Dublin-based businessman and Irish nationalist. Altman's story, often overlooked in historical accounts, sheds light on the creation of James Joyce's iconic character, Leopold Bloom, as well as the broader themes of race, nationalism, and empire explored in Joyce's masterpiece, Ulysses.

Davison's meticulous archival research unveils striking parallels between the lives of Altman and Bloom, highlighting the experience of double marginalization that Altman felt as both a Jew in Ireland and an Irishman in the British Empire. This profound exploration of identity and belonging is a central theme in Joyce's work, and Davison's book sheds valuable light on how Altman's experiences shaped the author's artistic vision.

Altman, a successful salt and coal merchant, was actively involved in municipal politics, advocating for Home Rule and labor rights. His prominence in the Home Rule circles, where Joyce and his father found common ground, made him a familiar name in the political landscape of the time. Through Altman's biography, Davison recovers a forgotten life story that illuminates Irish and Jewish identity and culture in Joyce's Dublin.

This volume, part of the Florida James Joyce Series, is edited by Sebastian D. G. Knowles, and it contributes significantly to our understanding of Joyce's literary legacy. By delving into the life and influence of Albert Altman, Davison offers a fresh perspective on the rich tapestry of Dublin's history and the complex interplay of identities that shaped Joyce's writing.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813069555