Abstract

Ernest Hemingway (1899-1961), was one of the most important figures in American literature. Many readers think Hemingway tends to create works from the male perspective, and “tough men” are always the focus of Hemingway’s attention. However, he also has strong feminine consciousness. Although women do not play a dominate role in his works, they are still indispensable and irreplaceable in building up the “tough man” spirit. In his works, Hemingway has depicted many impressive female characters, and authentically records women’s survival and mental state in that era. The author will analyze the female images in his works and explore the causes of the formation of these female images from four aspects, including social background, Hemingway’s family environment, individual experience and his marriages. This paper aims at helping readers have a better understanding of feminine survival state in that special period.

Keywords: Hemingway; female image; feminine consciousness

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. Literature Review-2

3. Female Images in Hemingway’s Works-2

3.1 Pitiful Women-3

3.2 Ideal Women-4

3.3 Rebellious Women-5

4. Causes of Formation of Female Images in Hemingway’s Works-6

4.1 Social background-6

4.2 Family environment-7

4.3 Individual experience-8

4.4 Complex marriages-10

5. Conclusion-12

Works cited-13