CONTENTS
Abstract i
摘 要 ii
Introduction 1
Chapter 1 Literature Review 2
Chapter2 The Background of the Novel 2
2.1 Life background of Hemingway 2
2.2 Personal experience of Hemingway 3
Chapter3 The functions of Symbolism 3
3.1 Definitions of Symbolism 3
3.2 Types of Symbolism 4
3.3 Significance of Symbolism 4
Chapter4 Symbolism in A Farewell to Arms 5
4.1 Symbolism of the Characters 5
4.1.1 Frederic Henry 5
4.1.2 Catherine Barkley 6
4.2 Symbolism of the Weather 6
4.2.1 Snow 7
4.2.2 Rain 7
4.2.2.1 Symbolizing Death 8
4.2.2.2 As a Substitute for Emotions 8
4.2.2.3 Foreshadowing Bad Events in the Future 9
4.3 Symbolism of the Landscape 9
4.3.1 Plain 9
4.3.2 Mountain 10
Conclusion 12
References 13
Acknowledgements 14
Abstract
As a literary technique, symbolism in literature has a great impact. It plays a significant role in Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms.
This paper includes four parts. The first part is an introduction to the background of the novel as well as the significance of the research. The second part is literature review. The third part explains the definition of symbolism, types of symbolism as well as the significance of symbolism. Symbolism is a simple and complex literary technique. The fourth part illustrates the symbols in the novel which includes the characters, the weather and the landscape. In particular, the rain symbolizes the feeling of the characters. Finally, the present study is rounded up with a conclusion, which states briefly the main findings of the paper that through the thorough analyses, massive symbolism in A Farewell to Arms enriches the themes of fiction and helps the characterization of the work. Doubtless the fact that the novel becomes so popular and influential is closely related to the abundant use of symbolism. .
Key words：Symbolism; Characters; Landscape; Weather
