Abstract

Henry James has many influential works. The Portrait of a Lady, written at early writing period of Henry James, stands for the masterpiece of the age. Henry James makes use of psychological realism which has great influence on “the stream of consciousness”.

Based on the understanding of psychological realism, this thesis explores the application and influence of it in the novel from different aspects. Also, the thesis discusses the uniqueness of this writing genre and studies its actual effects on readers.

First, this thesis introduces the life and works of Henry James. Then, it states the comments and current research situation of The Portrait of a Lady. Later, it analyzes the application and influence of psychological realism in the novel. In the aspect of personality of characters, it explores the personality of Isabel and Osmond. Then the thesis discusses the real atmosphere of psychological realism. After that, it analyzes the use of drawing the symbol of scenes. Finally, it concludes the whole analysis.  

Keywords: psychological realism; personality of characters; The Portrait of a Lady; symbol of scenes

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. Literature Review-1

3. The Application of Psychological Realism in Shaping the Personality of Characters-2

3.1 Personality of Isabel-3

3.2 Personality of Osmond-5

4. The Application of Psychological Realism in Creating the Atmosphere of Reality-7

4.1 Reality of Perspective Model-7

4.2 Reality of Conscious Activity-9

5. The Application of Psychological Realism in Drawing the Symbol of the Scenes-10

5.1 Grandmother’s House in Albany-11

5.2 Osmond’s House-11

5.3 Gardencourt-12

6. Conclusion-13

Works Cited-14