Abstract

Since the 1970s, there have been lots of interpretations of Moby Dick and Sea Wolf under Ecocriticism due to the emergence of the theory, which refresh the literary work and readers.

Previous critics put the focus on the two captains or just study one novel from the relationship between man and nature. But this thesis aims to compare and interpret Ismael and Van Weyden in the aspects of Man and Nature, Man and Man, Man and Himself from the perspective of Ecocriticism. These two narrators transform their attitudes towards Nature, others and themselves during the voyages and fortunately become the survivals at the end of the stories.

From the comparative study, we can conclude that in order to create ecological harmony people not only need to respect the nature, but also should establish a sincere relationship with a friend and never cease the pursuit of self-exploration.

Key words: Moby Dick; Sea Wolf; Ismael; Van Weyden; Ecocriticism

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

1.1 Two Novels and Narrators-1

1.2 Previous studies and literary review-2

1.3 Research Purpose and Significance-4

1.4 Structure-5

2. Ecocriticism-6

2.1 Brief Introduction-6

2.2 Three Aspects Provided by Ecocriticism-6

2.3 The Significance of Ecocriticism in Literature-7

3. The Relationship between Man and Nature-9

3.1 Ishmael from Curiosity to Admiration-9

3.2 Van Weyden from Alienation to Contact-10

4. The Relationship between Man and Man-12

4.1 Ishmael’s Friendship with Queequeg-12

4.2 Van Weyden’s Love with Maud-13

5. The Relationship between Man and Himself-14

5.1 Ishmael’s Exploration of Spiritual World-14

5.2 Van Weyden’s Pursuit of Human Nature-15

6. Conclusion-17

Reference-18