『虚栄の市』におけるシンボリズム

概要

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Abstract The theme of this paper is symbolism in Vanity Fair, a long novel written by William Thackeray. The purpose of the paper lies in considering symbols in the novel and what they tell readers about the main characters. There are a lot of symbols in the novel, and they are very important in interpreting major characters' words and actions as well as various incidents in it. The symbols adopted in the novel are taken from many fields of Thackeray's knowledge: the classics, the Bible, history, mythology, Shakespeare and other literary figures, and so forth. The author made good use of such symbols as Figs, Amelia and George's letters, the Iphigenia clock, Joseph Sedley's picture, Amelia's piano, George's portrait, Becky's two horses, George's short love letter to Becky, Napoleon Bonaparte, and Clytemnestra. These symbols will be discussed in the paper. Other interesting symbols will be explained, too. To read Vanity Fair is to study human nature as it is in any age and any country. Such symbols are not only impressive enough to urge readers to remember Dobbin, Becky, and Amelia. They are also enjoyable. Vanity Fair is worth reading again and again.
2011-04-01