Abstract

William Makepeace Thackeray was one of the representative writers of critical realistic in nineteenth century in England. Vanity Fair is regarded as his masterpiece. It follows two different but inter-linked female characters, Becky Sharp and Amelia Sedley. Vanity Fair profoundly and faithfully presents us the panorama of the aristocratic society, Thackeray attacks the corrupted and hypocritical middle class.This thesis mainly analyzes the figure of Becky Sharp from the perspective of her rebellious and obedience toward the patriarchal society. 

On one hand, in order to climb into the upper class, Becky dares to challenge and fight against the patriarchy. As a student, Becky has the courage to refuse Miss Pinkerton’s demands; as a wife, Becky acts as a husband; as a mother, she doesn’t pay attention to her son, but occupies with making money. On the other hand, the traditional values and beliefs forces Becky, she has to compromise to the family and society. Living under such a male-dominated society, no matter how hard they work, females are doomed to tragic destinies. Females can only change their fates with the help of men, so Becky has to rely on men. By analyzing Becky Sharp’s rebellion and obedience in Vanity Fair, the thesis draws the conclusion that only by relying on themselves can women get real freedom.

Key words: Becky Sharp; rebellion; obedience; patriarchal society

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1 Introduction.1

   1.1 William Makepeace Thackeray’s Works and Life1

   1.2 Vanity Fair2

2 Literature Review3

3 Becky’s rebellion in Vanity Fair.4

   3.1 Becky’s Rebellion As a Student.4

   3.2 Becky’s Rebellion As a Wife.5

   3.3 Becky’s Rebellion As a Mother7

4 Becky’s Obedience in Vanity Fair.9

   4.1 Becky’s Obedience to the Family.9

   4.2 Becky’s Obedience to the Patriarchal Society.10

5 Conclusion.12

References13