University College, Dublin (Chapter V)
Dean of Studies An English Jesuit priest who has a discussion with Stephen regarding the difference between moral beauty and material beauty. While discussing Stephen's preference for Aristotle and Aquinas, the dean says that he himself prefers a more "practical" application of the arts to Stephen's "liberal" interest in them. Compared to Stephen, the dean's views are pedestrian and lack philosophical insight.
Cranly Stephen's humanitarian friend with the "priestlike face" and "womanish eyes"; Stephen confides the "tumults and unrests and longings in his soul" to Cranly. Cranly fears the sense of loneliness that Stephen seems to welcome (and even accept) as an essential part of an artist's life, and he warns Stephen about the dangers of alienation and faithlessness, urging him to reconsider his decision to leave Ireland.
Lynch Stephen's irreverent, crude, and superficial friend, whose reptilian eyes reveal a "shriveling" soul. During one of their walks together, Stephen uses Lynch as a sounding board, explaining his theory about two philosophical definitions not addressed by Aristotle. As he talks with Lynch, he explains his personal theory of aesthetics.
Davin A solid, provincial Irish peasant lad; Stephen's friend and fellow student. Davin's fierce Irish nationalism reveals both the intensity and violence in the lives of the Irish peasant class and is proof, to Stephen, that a life of unquestioned patriotism is one to be avoided.
MacCann A "squat figure" and "self-proclaimed democrat" dedicated to circulating a petition in favor of "social liberty and equality among all classes and sexes in the United States of Europe of the future." Because Stephen refuses to conform to MacCann's demonstrative social conscience, MacCann labels Stephen an egocentric elitist.
Temple A highly emotional "gypsy student" who admires Stephen's keen intellect and passionate individuality. Temple respects Stephen's decision not to sign MacCann's petition, and he uses this issue to emphasize his open dislike of Cranly.
Moynihan, MacAlister, Donovan, Dixon, O'Keefe, Goggins, Glynn, Shuley, Ennis, and Connelly These young men represent the intellectual and cultural diversity of Dublin's typical University College students, from whom Stephen differentiates himself both in attitudes and in actions.
