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Introduced in Chapter V, Davin is a college friend of Stephen’s who wholeheartedly supports the fight for Irish independence. This political movement serves as a backdrop for the entire novel, and Davin’s late appearance allows Joyce to highlight how Stephen’s perspective has changed since the tense Christmas dinner scene in Chapter I. He readily debates Davin about his beliefs after refusing to sign a petition for universal peace, demonstrating that he has come a long way from being the quiet, overwhelmed child at the dinner table. Their conversation gives Stephen the opportunity to elaborate on his new approach to navigating the world around him as he argues that politics, religion, and family are all institutions which seek to limit his sense of self.
While this moment reflects Stephen’s liberating point of view, Davin struggles to comprehend the idea that one’s nationality can limit their identity rather than enhance it. He emphasizes that, as Irishmen, they have a duty to preserve their language, culture, and freedom. Joyce suggests that this unwavering, passionate stance is, in part, a product of Davin’s rural upbringing, and linking these two ideas seems to critique the political movement for oversimplifying the dynamic between the Irish and the British. When Stephen first describes Davin, he refers to him as a “peasant student” and explains that he grew up surrounded by uniquely Irish traditions. This childhood, which Davin himself even admits was “simple,” implies that he experienced very few challenges to his belief in the strength and vitality of his culture. The proud Ireland that he learned about then is the same Ireland he continues to believe in and celebrate as a young adult. While Davin sees this commitment as something to honor, Stephen ultimately argues that his blind, unquestioning patriotism is naïve and personally restrictive. He still cares about and respects his friend, but Stephen looks down upon his approach to politics.
