Contents

Acknowledgements

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction-1

1.1 Introduction to O·Henry-1

1.2 Introduction to O·Henry’s works-1

1.2.1 The Last Ivy-1

1.2.2 The Gift of the Magi-2

1.3 Literature Review-3

1.4 Significance and Structure of the Thesis-3

Chapter Two Factors Influencing O·Henry ’s Works-5

2.1 Cruel Society-5

2.2 O·Henry’s Personal Experiences-6

Chapter Three Literary Features and the Content of Humanistic Spirit in O·Henry’s Works-7

3.1 Features of O·Henry’s Works-7

3.1.1 O·Henry’s Ending-7

3.1.2 Tearful Smile-8

3.2 Humanistic Spirit in O·Henry’s Works-9

3.2.1 Selflessness and Mutual Care Among People-9

3.2.2 Love Between the Couple-10

3.2.3 Sympathy for the Little People at the Bottom of the Society-11

Chapter Four Conclusion-13

References-14

Abstract

O·Henry is American’s famous critical realistic writer, and his novels have delicate design and unique style. His works are famous in the world for the humorous language and outcome beyond all expectations ( “O·Henry's ending”) to show life of the lower people in the USA. His works have novel idea, humorous language and unexpected ending. He describes many characters in the society, known as the "Humorous Encyclopedia of American life". The problem of human nature is an important theme of his works. And one important reason for his works’ enduring charm, is their revelation of the theme of human nature.

The Last Ivy and The Gift of the Magi are two of the most representatives of all his works, which illustrate the warmth of human nature form the perspective of friendship and love separately. The little people under his writing all have the same quality, they all have a kind heart and sacrifice themselves to make the cruel society full of the glory of human nature, and make the readers “ tearful smile”. This paper aims to explore how human nature forms in O·Henry's works by interpreting the two representative works as well as from the aspects like features of O·Henry's works, the factors influencing his creating, etc. 

This paper is divided into three parts, namely introduction, main body and conclusion. The first part briefly introduces O·Henry and the two representatives, as well as Chinese and foreign scholars’ evaluation to him and his works. The main part explains the beauty of human nature in his works in terms of factors influencing his works, features and the content of humanistic spirit. Finally, the conclusion part summarizes the above description, and puts forward the shortcomings of this study and the expectation for future research.

Keywords:  O·Henry  The Last Ivy  The Gift of the Magi  the beauty of humanity