Contents

Acknowledgments

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction1

1.1 Introduction to Michael Morpurgo-1

1.2 Introduction to War Horse-2

1.3 Literature Review-3

1.4 Structure of the Thesis-3

Chapter Two Symbolism-5

2.1 Definition of Symbolism-5

2.2 Its Origin and Development-5

2.3 Its features.6

ChapterThree Analysis of Symbolism in War Horse-8

3.1 Symbolic Meanings of the Characters in War Horse8

3.1.1 Albert Narracott-8

   3.1.2 Ted Narracott8

   3.1.3 Friedrich .9

   3.1.4 Joey.9

 3.2 Symbolic Meanings of the Objects in War Horse.9

   3.2.1 The Iron Cross9

   3.2.2 Whip10

 3.3 Symbolic Meanings of the Plots in War Horse11

   3.3.1 The Plot of forcibly taking Horses from Emilie.11

   3.3.2 The Plot of Saving Joey11

Chapter Four Significance of Symbolism in War Horse13

 4.1 Portraying Characters13

 4.2 Deepening the War Theme.13

Chapter Five Conclusion.15   

References-16

Abstract

Published in 1982, War Horse is a great novel written by the English author Michael Morpurgo. It is a story of a horse Joey and his master Albert, who depart and meet each other again. The novel employs symbolism representing the cruelty of war as well as humanity. 

    Based on the former studies, this thesis will make a study on the symbolism in War Horse and reveal the deep thoughts of the author and the anti-war theme of the work through an analysis of the symbolism of the characters, the objects and the plots. 

Keywords: Michael Morpurgo  War Horse  symbolism