Abstract:Jack London (January 12, 1876—November 22, 1916) is one of the greatest American novelist, journalist, and social activist in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. White Fang is a masterpiece of Jack London.

The thesis aims to study the characterization of the protagonist from three parts. First, the writer gives a brief introduction to Jack London, and then studies the present situation of White Fang at home and abroad. Second, the body is divided into three chapters. The first chapter introduces the forming of character of White Fang by analyzing the background of Jack London and his life experience; the second chapter is to study the character of White Fang through the relevant theories; the third chapter is concerned about Jack London’s artistic devices in characterizing White Fang. Finally, the conclusion gives a summary of the paper, emphasizing the significance and value of portraying the character of White Fang.

Key words: Jack London; White Fang; theoretical analysis; artistic devices

Contents

Abstract

中文摘要

Introduction-1

I.-Background Information of the Writer and His Works-3

A.-Jack London’s Life Experience-3

B.-Social Background-4

C.-Cultural Background-4

II.-Characterization of White Fang from the Relevant Theories -7

A.-The Eco-ethical Interpretation-7

B.-The Influence of “Survival of the Fittest”-8

C.-The Philosophy of Superman-9

III.-Artistic Devices Used in Characterizing White Fang-11

A.-Jack London’s Proper Use of Language-11

B.-Jack London’s Symbolism-12

C.-Jack London’s Naturalistic Writing Style-12

Conclusion-15

Bibliography-17

Acknowledgements-19