What is the dominant theme in Virginia Woolf's "Mrs. Dalloway"?

In Virginia Woolf's "Mrs. Dalloway," the passage of time and its effects on individuals serves as the dominant theme that weaves through the narrative. The novel takes place over the course of a single day, and through its stream-of-consciousness style, Woolf explores the characters' reflections on their pasts, their present experiences, and the inevitability of aging and loss. Clarissa Dalloway’s thoughts and memories highlight how time shapes personal identities and relationships, revealing the fragility of life and the permanence of change.

Through the characters’ interactions and inner monologues, Woolf illustrates how the passage of time influences emotional states and decisions, often juxtaposing moments of joy with shades of melancholy. This preoccupation with time mirrors broader existential questions, making it a central focal point in understanding the characters’ lives and experiences. The significance of memories and the fleeting nature of human connections underscore Woolf's meditation on time, marking it as the core theme in "Mrs. Dalloway."

The other themes, while present in the narrative, do not capture the essence as thoroughly as the exploration of time does, making the passage of time the most dominant theme in the novel.