Abstract:Henry James is known as one of the representatives of 19th-century literary realism. As a prolific writer, he wrote 22 novels, 113 short stories and more than 10 books of literary criticism. The Portrait of a Lady, which adopts the theory of spatial narrative, is considered the best one of his works. The publication of this novel makes him one of the most famous writers in Europe. The novel tells a story about the process of growth and maturity of a young and innocent American girl, who appreciates European culture blindly, is deceived by two Europeanized Americans and falls into a marriage trap.

Many critics have studied the international theme of the novel, Isabel’s personality, psychology behavior disposition, dwelling environment, tragic marriage and pursuit of liberty, whereas few scholars have done research on the “space” factor hidden in the novel. This thesis will make a detailed analysis of the novel from the aspect of spatial narrative, exploring how the author highlights the theme with a deft application of the writing skill. 

This thesis is divided into four chapters. Chapter one gives a brief introduction to Henry James, The Portrait of a Lady and literature review. Chapter Two explains the definition, development and features of spatial narrative. Chapter Three focuses on how spatial narrative is applied in this novel through analyzing the consequences of three different space forms on the growth of Isabel. Chapter four is conclusion, summarizing the main points of the thesis.

Keywords:  Henry James  The Portrait of a Lady  spatial narrative

Contents

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction-1

1.1 Introduction to Henry James-1

1.2 Introduction to The Portrait of a Lady-1

1.3 Literature Review-2

Chapter Two Spatial Narrative-4

2.1 Definition and Development of Spatial Narrative-4

2.2 Features of Spatial Narrative-5

Chapter Three Spatial Narrative in The Portrait of a Lady-7

3.1 The Geological Space Witnessing Isabel’s Growth-7

3.1.1 America-7

3.1.2 Britain-8

3.1.3 Italy-8

3.2 The Social Space Forcing Isabel to Grow-9

3.2.1 Collision of Two Different Cultures-9

3.2.2 Dealing with Interpersonal Relationships-10

3.3 The Perceptual Space Revealing Isabel’s Growth-11

3.3.1 The Naïve and Innocent Period-11

3.3.2 The Quest for Self-consciousness-12

3.3.3 The Awakening of Self-consciousness-12

Chapter Four Conclusion-14

References-15