When considering the question of "Nature vs. Nurture" through the perspective of Stephen Dedalus, it is an interesting examination of the time period in Ireland when patriots like Parnell fought religious figures of the Catholic Church. Obviously, the religious and secular dualities are part of the environment that permeates Dedalus's life. Not only is this religion evident in society, but the "nurture" piece also demonstrates that he lives in a household that is split between religion and patriotism. Are Stephen's actions in the novel primarily shaped by his upbringing or external environment? Well, it is easy to state the novel’s external factors and stop there. However, Stephen’s unorthodox ability to “feel” his environment, such as the “ping-pong-puck” of the cricket bat, or the “scorching skull” when he envisions himself in Hell, prompts him to retain the aestheticism of an artist. Although he is definitely impacted by the pious teachings in his classes, or the sermon from Father Arnell, it is evident that the passion and character of an artist burns within him. It is interesting to examine the external factors that play a part in the development of Stephen’s character, especially when these external factors are largely based on the dualities existing in the novel. We see the artistic side of Stephen, and this is truly the “nurture” piece and the authentic character he displays. At the same time, the dualities of Heaven and Hell, Purity and Sin, Aesthetics and Rationality, and Assimilation and Isolation emphasize the rational, firm side that the Joyce presents to his brainchild, Stephen. These dualities cause Stephen to question the ambiguity of artistry, and thus, prompt him to consider life from a more black and white standpoint. For instance, when he chooses to confess his sins, or when he chooses to appeal to the rector, Stephen chooses a side. And by doing so, Stephen tends to succeed in his endeavors. This firmness transitions into action, and thus, accomplishment. In many ways, Stephen is impacted by his external environment. However, throughout the novel, the main character is obstinate about being an artistic and aesthetic. Although the confession during the novel is stylistically monotonous because it involves Stephen’s ability to admit and confront his sin (and thus, involves a transition from an artist to a pragmatist), for the most part, Stephen is sensually connected with his “external environment” and arguably he influences his natural environment with his appreciation for its beauty. While the answer is obviously ambiguous, it seems that for the most part, Stephen’s innately aesthetic character influences his actions and choices, however his external environment helps Stephen realize the instances when pragmatism supersedes aestheticism. There are times, he realizes, when it is better to be assertive and rational, than indifferent and ambiguous. By realizing this, Stephen Dedalus is not only the aesthetic artist, but the “comprehensive artist.”
