Why did James Joyce dislike Ireland?

Answer 1

Mainly because she was a "servant with two masters": the British and the Roman Catholic Church. Joyce believed both influences to be disabling for the Irish spirit. Also because (in his opinion) Irishmen were paralyzed in an admiration for the idyllic Celtic past and thus unable to create their own present. Joyce called Ireland "a sow that eats its own farrow" referring to the betrayal of her leaders, among whom Parnell was the most notable.

Answer 2

James Joyce's relationship with Ireland was complex. He critiqued aspects of Irish society, such as its religious and political influences, in his work. However, he also drew heavily on Irish history and culture as inspiration for his writing, suggesting a level of attachment to his homeland.