Break And Defense

Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930) and Agatha Christie (1890-1976) are the two most representative writers in the field of British detective novels. Their gender consciousnesses are presented in their works vividly. By exploring their gender consciousnesses, it helps our understanding of the subjects and the artistic forms in the two writers'works.The thesis first makes a general survey on the development of feminism. Then the thesis places its importance on analyzing the two writers'gender consciousnesses which are projected by their different characterizations. Doyle defends the writing features of male writers in the patriarchal society by creating stereotyped women who are dependent and submissive. However, his Holmes is a heroic man with rich knowledge, neglecting women and their opinions. His unfavorable description towards women and glorification towards men show his male"hegemonism". However, as a female writer, Christie breaks through the control of the traditional patriarchal society towards the female writing by creating optimistic, independent and creative women and new men who can consider women's feelings earnestly. It shows Christie's advocacy of equality between men and women.. Finally, the thesis draws a conclusion according to the analysis of the two writers'characterizations. Doyle defends the stereotyped rules of the patriarchal society and creates stereotyped characters. However, Christie breaks through the stereotyped gender consciousness in the patriarchal society by creating optimistic and self-confident new women and considerate men.