Though initial preparation for the work began in 1902, Ulysses, a modernist classic, was eventually published in 1922. A remarkable conflation of mythology, symbolism, philosophy, social realism and humanity, this tale of the events of a single day (June 16, 1904) in Dublin is loosely based on Homer's Odyssey.
The main character in the book is Leopard Bloom, a middle aged Dubliner- quiet and decent, a man of inflexible honour to his fingertips. Another significant figure winding his way through the streets of the city is Stephen Dedalus- an arrogant young intellectual whom Bloom takes under his wing. Many of the 'real' things and topical events that the narrative presents- historical references, newspaper reports, descriptions of environments, places and objects- were meticulously researched by Joyce.
In spite of the work's diverse styles and fantastic representations, Bloom's relationships with his wife Molly and surrogate son Stephan Dedalus are enacted against a vivid and deeply naturalistic background of the city of Dublin.