Abstract: As the earliest masterpiece of D. H. Lawrence, Sons and Lovers has aroused considerable attention from scholars and critics. In recent years, researchers at home and abroad begin to analyze this novel from the perspective of ecofeminism. In Sons and Lovers, both nature and the three female characters are suffering from the oppression of men. However, instead of surrendering, nature and these three women fight against the patriarchal society in their own ways. Based on former studies, this paper attempts to interpret Sons and Lovers from the perspective of ecofeminism, calling for immediate actions to be taken to reconstruct a harmonious world where men, women and nature can live in harmony. 

Key words: Sons and Lovers; ecofeminism; nature; women; men

Contents

Abstract

中文摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. The Formation of Lawrence’s Ecofeminist Ideas-4

2.1 Lawrence’s Affinity with Nature-4

2.2 Lawrence’s Affection for Women-6

3. Nature and Women in the Patriarchal Society-7

3.1 Dominated Nature-7

3.1.1 Deteriorating Living Environment in Bestwood-8

3.1.2 Terrible Working Environment in Nottingham and London-9

3.2 Oppressed Women-10

3.2.1 Mrs. Morel as a Housewife-10

3.2.2 Miriam as a Symbol of Spirituality-11

3.2.3 Clara as a Symbol of Sex-13

4. Revolt of Nature and Women in the Patriarchal Society-14

4.1 Nature’s Revenge-14

4.1.1 The Effects on Mr. Morel-14

4.1.2 The Effects on William and Paul-15

4.2 Women’s Rebellion-16

4.2.1 Mrs. Morel’s Control over the Family-16

4.2.2 Miriam’s Pursuit for Equality-18

4.2.3 Clara’s Pursuit for Independence-18

5. An Ecofeminist Examination on Lawrence’s Thoughts in Sons and Lovers-19

5.1 The Ideal Relationship between Women and Nature-20

5.2 The Ideal Relationship between Men and Nature-21

5.3 The Ideal Relationship between Men and Women-22

6. Conclusion-23

References-24