Abstract
Henry James (1843-1916) is one of the greatest American novelists in the 19th century, while he is an inaugurator of psychological realism novel. The Portrait of a Lady is generally considered as one of Henry James’s the most classic novels. This novel is very successful because James creates a series of characters with distinctive personality.
The thesis aims to make a thorough analysis of protagonists’ character from three chapters. Chapter One has a research on character of Isabel and points out her naive and spineless character to make her tragic marriage. Chapter Two focuses on the character of Osmond. His crafty and false character leads to his wife tragic marriage and destroys his daughter’s happiness. Chapter Three analyzes the character of Ralph. His slovenly and mature character shows that Ralph has optimistic and helpful spirit.
In conclusion, the thesis analyzes protagonists’ character in the novel and finds that Isabel’s naivete and weakness lead to her tragic ending, Osmond’s slyness and androcentrism cause his family’s painful life and Ralph’s laziness and maturity make him happy to spend the rest of his life. Therefore, this article explains that different personalities determine different destinies.
Key Words: character destiny marriage
Contents
Abstract i
Contents ii
Introduction 1
Chapter One The Character of Isabel 2
1.1 Her Naivete before Marriage 2
1.2 Her Weakness after Marriage 3
Chapter Two The Character of Osmond 5
2.1 His Slyness 5
2.2 His Androcentrism 6
Chapter Three The Character of Ralph 8
3.1 His Indolence 8
3.2 His Adultness 10
Conclusion 11
Notes 12
References 13
