华盛顿广场里面的象征.ppt

SILENT VOICES This research aims to interpret several symbols in Washington Square written by Henry James. Some of the voiceless symbols in the novel bear plentiful connotations. Here the researcher will raise five examples to dig out deeper meanings under them. Introduction Washington Square Dr.Sloper’s Mansion The Alps Valley Names of Characters Look Homeward,James Symbolic significance of the location:Washington Square WASHINGTON SQUARE Washington Square AGAINST NYC NYC “By the time the doctor changed his residence, the murmur of trade had become a mighty uproar, which was music in the ears of all good citizens interested in the commercial development, as they delighted to call it, of their fortunate isle…”(James,2001,p.15) The second half of the 19th century witnessed an economic prosperity in U.S. history, which was manifested by increasing export commodities, huge investment on railway construction and the expansion of global market. The story takes place in NYC, the economic center of the States. NYC represents a new moral form shaped by a new capitalism value system in which money is in the dominating position. The Square“The ideal of quiet and of genteel retirement, in 1835, was found in Washington Square…In front of them was the square, containing a considerable quantity of inexpensive vegetation, enclosed by a wooden paling, which increased its rural and accessible appearance…It has a kind of established repose which is not of frequent occurrence in other quarters of the long, shrill city…”(James,2001,p.16) Washington Square was such a tranquil place against a roaring surroundings. It is not difficult to find that it represents something original and the old order and customs confronted with the new money-worship value.  Magnificence What does Dr.Sloper’s residence look like? “…where the doctor built himself a handsome, modern, wide-fronted house, with a big balcony before the drawing-room windows, and a flight of white marble ste