Abstract ：William Faulkner is one of the most distinguished American writers in American literature in the 20th century, especially in Southern literature. Faulkner enjoys a sound reputation in literature for his unique writing skills. A Rose for Emily is one of his most classical short stories. Since it was published in 1930 in Forum, A Rose for Emily, has long been popular among readers and held in the good graces of the critics. The application of abundant symbols in this works deepens the theme and possesses strong artistic attraction. This paper will be based on the symbolism of the characters and the objects in this novel in order to comprehensively and profoundly understand the symbolism of Emily, Emily’s father, Tobe, Barron, the rose, the house, the watch, the machine and so on.

Key Words: A Rose for Emil; the symbolism; Emily

Contents

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction-4

Chapter Two Literature Review-4

Chapter Three The Symbolism in A Rose for Emily-6

3.1 The Symbolism of the Characters-6

3.1.1 The Symbolism of Emily-6

3.1.2 The Symbolism of Homer Barron-8

3.1.3 The Symbolism of Emily’s Father-9

3.1.4 The Symbolism of Tobe-11

3.2 The Symbolism of the Objects-12

3.2.1 The Symbolism of Rose-12

3.2.2 The Symbolism of Emily’s House-14

3.2.3 The Symbolism of Watch-15

3.2.4 The Symbolism of Cotton Wagons and Gasoline Pumps-16

Chapter Four Conclusion-16

Bibliography-17

Acknowledgments-19