In the short story, "The Dead" from James Joyce's The Dubliners, falling snow is a metaphor for the approach of death. The tenor of the metaphor is death and the vehicle is winter and the snow. As more snow falls on the characters and winter draws closer, the characters, specifically Gabriel, Aunt Kate, and Aunt Julia, approach their demise. Similarly, Michael Furey, whom Gretta once loved, passed away soon after shivering in the cold of winter outside of Gretta's house.
Gabriel symbolizes outdated ideals. During the party, Gabriel upholds several duties as the man of the family such as carving the meat, tending to Mrs. Marlins, and making a speech, which demonstrates his traditionalist role in the family. His concept of marriage as true love between men and women is quickly put down by Lily's bitter remark when he first arrives and is again thwarted by the story of his wife's childhood love after the party. Miss Ivors' cross examination of Gabriel's political views and Irish loyalty also demonstrates his agitation by change.
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