Literary:
* Homer's *Odyssey*: The most obvious influence, *Ulysses* mirrors the journey of Odysseus in a modern setting, with Leopold Bloom standing in for Odysseus. The novel uses themes, characters, and plot elements from the *Odyssey* to tell a parallel story about everyday life in Dublin.
* The works of Dante: Joyce's use of elaborate symbolism, the portrayal of a journey through different spiritual states, and the novel's overarching structure are all reminiscent of Dante's *Divine Comedy*.
* The works of William Shakespeare: Joyce incorporates Shakespearean allusions and echoes throughout *Ulysses*, particularly in the language and character development.
* Modernist writers like Marcel Proust and Franz Kafka: Joyce was deeply influenced by the techniques of these writers, such as stream of consciousness, fragmented narratives, and the exploration of internal thought processes.
* The Irish Literary Revival: The novel is steeped in Irish culture, folklore, and language, reflecting the influence of the Irish Literary Revival.
Philosophical:
* The works of Immanuel Kant: Joyce's focus on consciousness, the role of perception, and the nature of reality is strongly influenced by Kant's philosophy.
* The works of Sigmund Freud: Joyce's exploration of the subconscious mind, dreams, and the complex psychological motivations of his characters reflects the influence of Freud's psychoanalytic theories.
Cultural:
* The social and political climate of early 20th century Ireland: *Ulysses* captures the cultural and political tensions of post-independence Ireland, reflecting the social realities of the time.
* The modernist movement in art and literature: Joyce's use of innovative techniques, like stream of consciousness and fragmentation, places him firmly within the modernist movement.
Specific Texts:
* *The Dubliners* (Joyce's own short story collection): The characters, settings, and atmosphere of *Dubliners* are woven into *Ulysses*, providing a familiar context for the reader.
* *Finnegans Wake* (Joyce's later novel): Joyce's experimental use of language and his exploration of the subconscious in *Finnegans Wake* foreshadow the techniques he would use in *Ulysses*.
It's important to note that these are just a few of the many influences that contributed to the creation of *Ulysses*. Joyce's genius lies in his ability to synthesize these diverse influences and create a unique and enduring work of art.