Final answer:
In "Araby," the main character discovers his own naivety and the gap between his expectations and reality, evidenced by a tone that moves from excitement to disillusionment. Joyce uses diction and imagery to convey these themes and to illustrate the protagonist's self-discovery.
Step-by-step explanation:
Self-Discovery in James Joyce's "Araby"
In James Joyce's short story "Araby," the young protagonist experiences a poignant moment of self-discovery during his visit to the titular bazaar. Through his journey, he realizes the disparity between his romanticized visions and the harsh reality of the world around him. Joyce conveys this realization using a tone that evolves from one of excitement and anticipation to one of disillusionment and understanding of his naivety.
Narrative Tone and Diction
The tone of the story is initially fueled by the protagonist's youthful optimism, but gradually shifts to a more somber, reflective one towards the end. Words such as 'splendid' or 'magnificent' early in the narrative give way to phrases like 'silence and darkness' that mark his disappointment and a newfound understanding of reality. The narrator's word choices in Joyce's story directly shape the tone and mood, with earlier descriptive, vibrant language contrasting with the later, more subdued and stark diction.
Themes and Style
Joyce utilizes imagery and sensory language to vividly portray the character's heightened expectations which clash with the actual drab and disappointing experiences at Araby. The style of the story, which includes the use of specific diction and imagery, assists readers in understanding the character's internal journey and the themes of disillusionment and the loss of innocence. This story's ending reinforces the theme of growth through a sober realization of self and environment.