The Ideal And Reality In Willa Cather's Early Fiction

Willa Cather (1873-1947) is famous for her prudent attitude, profound theme and unique technique in her fiction. Her fiction enjoys everlasting fame and stands the test of time. In her early works, which are of westward expansion, she brings a warm and amiable world to our eyes, to which most people can approach. Although these works are based on 19th westward expansion in USA, she takes a deep insight into the complicated American society. Her literary creation is by no means a superficial one, she goes deeply into plain life, or we may say, the outside world. She brings us many characters around a concentrated theme, a wide and broad influence. Especially, her attitude towards the life has a positive connection with the human survivals. In this thesis, I intended to break through the barrier of long-standing comment over her— homesickness, a defender of the spiritual beauty. I have tried my best to put her fiction into the context of the whole US literature.In its first chapter, I have analyzed the break-up in Willa Cather's creation. By illustrating the relationship between the pioneering fiction and the whole US literature, I have expounded her influence upon China, with the relationship between her fiction and the first generation of US female literature as my main concern. This may help us understand and dig up her motive and charm. In the second chapter, by concretely analyzing the juxtaposition of contradictions in her fiction, I have studied how the author the border life to the reader. By doing so, we may know the creative tendency of Willa Cather, she sought for the good tradition of the spiritual beauty, she concerned for social reality. These fictions may help us understand that special period of pioneering west, and may help us reflect upon the contradictions between the lofty ideal and the cool reality. As a female writer, Willa Cather portrayed a lot of strong women on that vast land. In the third chapter, I have focused on those women who have the tough spirit. By a close reading of the fictional texts, I have explained deeply, at least, I think so, into those characters that are vividly acting between lines. This can help women have a better a better understanding of not only the characters but also themselves. The contemporary women, I am sure, may enhance their confidence.