Mary Dedalus

Mary Dedalus is a character from James Joyce's novel *A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man*. She is the mother of the protagonist, Stephen Dedalus. Mary embodies traditional Irish femininity and strength, often representing stability and nurturing. Her character illustrates family bonds, cultural influences, and the personal sacrifices women made in her time. Throughout the story, her presence emphasizes themes of cultural continuity, personal identity, and the contrasts between generational values. Mary Dedalus's role helps deepen the reader's understanding of Stephen's background, shaping his development as an artist.