Abstract

The Russian American writer Vladimir Nabokov was one of the most influential writers in the 20th century. Lolita, Nabokov’s masterpiece, which was the most controversial work of all his works, attracted much attention from numerous readers and critics since its publication. The novel narrates the emotional life of Humbert by Humbert’s confession in prison, focusing on the time of living with Lolita. The analysis of the course of Humbert’s mind has fascinated many commentators. As for Lolita, the very figure that could make Humbert give up his life for her, was often treated as a secondary and single person. The thesis is consist of introduction, three parts of the text and conclusion. The introduction briefly introduce the author and main contents of the novel. The first part of the text shows the conservative attitude towards feminism and his writing techniques which takes Lolita as the second angle of view. The second part lists a serious of tragedies of Lolita. The third part reveals the reasons of Lolita’s tragedies. Thus it comes to the conclusion that Lolita is also a victim in this love affair. The analysis of Lolita from the perspective of feminism can help readers better understand Lolita. 

Key words: Lolita; Nabokov; feminism; tragedy

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. Literature Review-2

3. Nabokov’s Views towards Feminism-2

3.1 Nabokov’s conservative view towards feminism-2

3.2 Nabokov’s narrative techniques from the perspective of Humbert-3

4. The Tragedies of Lolita-5

4.1 Humbert’s crazy domination on Lolita-5

4.2 Lolita’s inability to resist Humbert-6

4.3 Readers’ preference for Humbert-8

5. The Causes of Lolita’s Tragedy-10

5.1 The unequal relationship between Lolita and Humbert-10

5.2 Lolita’s incomplete awareness of feminism-11

6. Conclusion-12

Works Cited-13