Abstract:Oscar Wilde, an English writer, playwright and poet, is known as a “wit and dramatist”, whose works range from fairy tales and dramas to poems. His life was full of ups and downs. At one time he made a great success as an outstanding dramatist, but at another time he was no more than a failure as one of the most controversial figure in world literature. Eileen Chang, a modern Chinese writer, led a legendary life. She used to be a household figure in Shanghai where almost everyone read her novel and prose. However, during her later life, she spent nearly all her time in her own house quietly and simply. They typically embody both rebellion and convention in an integrated way. This thesis tried to compare these two writers through the aspects of social background, life experiences and writing style in order to enhance our understanding and form correct evaluation of their works. Their works were profound and critical in revealing the cruel and brutal reality to the people. The significance of literary works was beyond ethical standards, just as Wilde once said, “The books that the world calls immoral are books that show the world its own shame.”

Keywords: comparative literature， convention ，rebellion

Contents

中文摘要

Abstract

Chapter 1 Introduction-1

1.1 Life Experiences-1

1.2 Social Conditions-3

Chapter 2 Their Views on Life-3

2.1 Personality-3

2.1.1 Tragic Life and Perseverence-3

2.1.2 Between Loneliness and Fame-4

2.2 Dressing Style-5

2.3 Love Experiences-6

Chapter3 Writing Styles-8

3.1 Aestheticism-8

3.2 Pessimism and Irony-8

Chapter 4 Conclusion-10

References-11

Acknowledgements-11