Ulysses - Chapter 2
Stephen stood before his students at Mr. Deasy's school, teaching history with a weary heart. The boys fidgeted in their seats, barely listening as he spoke of ancient battles and fallen empires. Their young faces showed no comprehension of the weight of history, the burden of the past.
"What is a pier, sir?" one student asked, confusing the lesson entirely.
Stephen sighed. How could he teach these privileged boys about suffering and loss? They knew nothing of poverty, nothing of grief. Their lives stretched before them, unmarked by tragedy.
After class, Mr. Deasy summoned Stephen to his office. The old headmaster counted out Stephen's meager wages, coin by coin, lecturing him about thrift and responsibility. Deasy's worldview was simple: work hard, save money, trust in God and England.
"The Jews are to blame for our troubles," Deasy declared suddenly, his face reddening. "They sinned against the light."
Stephen listened politely, though he disagreed. He thought of the Jewish merchants in Dublin, hardworking and honest. Deasy's prejudice was born of ignorance, not wisdom.
"I have a letter about foot-and-mouth disease," Deasy continued, thrusting papers at Stephen. "Take it to the newspaper offices. Use your connections."
Stephen accepted the letter, knowing he would deliver it though he cared nothing for Deasy's agricultural concerns. He needed the money, needed this job, however much he despised it.
As he left the school, Stephen felt the weight of obligation pressing down upon him. He owed money to everyone, owed his time to Deasy, owed his life to expectations he could never fulfill.