Considering my obsession relates to religion, particularly Catholicism, I’m very interested in investigating Joyce’s utilization of “cross.” Obviously, this word has major resonance with Catholicism due to the Crucifixion of Christ being a paramount theological moment. In fact, the Catholic Church considers the Crucifixion and subsequent Resurrection the two most important moments in Christianity. However, in Ulysses, the eminence of the Cross seems complicated. For example, Bloom observes the mass he notices letters on the priest’s back, “I.N.R.I? No” (5, 372). However, his sight is wrong and he casually disregards the phrase “King of the Jews” that was carved over Jesus’ head as he was crucified, words that hold high significance in the Catholic tradition, words that should not easily be mixed up.

I’m also intrigued by the usage of “cross” as a verb. Mulligan’s cutting accusation against Dedalus stands as a particularly glaring application of this, “You crossed her last wish in death and yet you sulk with me because I don’t whinge like some hired mute” (1, 212-213). As I look into my obsession, the acts, performances, and rituals, of Catholicism stand out in Joyce’s writing. Joyce manipulates words related to these religious practices in very compelling and inciting ways. Perhaps “crossing” and/or the physical action of the Sign of the Cross will continue to meaningfully impact the forthcoming episodes.

The words “crown” and “mass” also stood out as pertinent due to their Christian connotations. The allusion to I.N.R.I and Bloom’s contemplation during the Catholic service convey that those two words do purposely intersect with the plot. However, unlike “cross,” they don’t have the verb usage that I find so insistently promising in its subtle, yet dramatic utilization.