The narrative revolves around Stephen Dedalus, a young Irish lad from the late 19th century, who gradually liberates himself from societal, familial, and religious expectations to dedicate his life to the pursuit of literature. Stephen's early life is largely shaped by his Catholic faith and Irish identity, especially during his time at the religiously stringent boarding school, Clongowes Wood College. Initially, he grapples with homesickness and isolation, but eventually, he finds his footing among his peers. Despite the escalating familial conflicts following the demise of Irish political leader Charles Stewart Parnell, Stephen still cherishes his time at home.

Stephen's father, Simon, consistently struggles with managing finances, plunging the family further into debt. After spending a summer with his Uncle Charles, Stephen is informed that his family, unable to afford his education at Clongowes, is relocating to Dublin. There, Stephen enrolls in a well-known day school, Belvedere, and starts to shine as a writer and an actor in the school theater. His first sexual encounter with a local prostitute triggers a whirlwind of guilt and shame as he tries to reconcile his physical urges with his strict Catholic upbringing. Stephen indulges in a series of sins, ignoring his religious past until a three-day religious retreat shakes him to his core. Listening to sermons about sin, judgment, and hell, Stephen decides to commit himself to a life of Christian propriety.

Embracing a life of piety, abstinence, and self-denial, Stephen turns into a paragon of Catholic devotion, attending Mass daily. His religious fervor catches the attention of his school director, who suggests he consider priesthood. However, Stephen declines, realizing that the ascetic priestly life conflicts with his appreciation for sensual beauty. On learning about yet another impending relocation due to financial constraints, a worried Stephen awaits his university acceptance news. On a beach stroll, he is captivated by the beauty of a young girl wading in the tide, leading to an epiphany - beauty and desire should not be sources of shame. This inspires Stephen to live life unbounded by the confines of his family, nationality, and religion.

At university, Stephen cultivates strong friendships, particularly with a youth named Cranly. Through dialogues with his friends, Stephen starts to shape his theories on art. Despite relying on his friends as sounding boards, he remains resolute in his quest for an independent life, free from the anticipations of friends and family. Determined to liberate himself from all restrictive influences, Stephen ultimately decides to leave Ireland. He aspires to emulate his mythical namesake, Daedalus, and create wings for himself to rise above all hurdles and succeed as an artist.