| Edward Morgen Forster(1879–1970),a famous British novelist and literary critic,is remembered as a representative of British literature during the transitional period from tradition to modern.His writing career terminated when he was forty-five and had only produced six novels,but he built his reputation for profound social conscientiousness and specific literary perspective as a well-known literary master around the world.The Longest Journey,published in 1907,reflects the turbulent social situation in Britain between the end of nineteenth century and the beginning of the twentieth century.In this work,Forster discusses many aspects of the ethical dilemma that the British middle class encountered;it highlights the “undeveloped heart” of the middle class and the degraded moral values of social reality.Forster expresses his prospect of sincere interpersonal relationships;a harmonious orderly society;and the pursuit of truth,good,and fraternity.Taking the approach of ethical literary criticism,this paper starts from Rickie's life journey,aiming to analyze the internal and external reasons that cause Rickie's confusion about his ethical identity as well as the triplex ethical dilemma Rickie confronts.This paper also explores the ways Rickie tries to achieve self-salvation,the significance of ethical salvation,and the ethical feelings Forster implies in it.This paper is divided into five parts.The first chapter introduces the author,the work,and literature reviewed at home and abroad,and presents the main content of ethical literary criticism.It then points out the significance of this study by exploring the rich ethical meaning contained in the novel.The second chapter mainly study the ethical environment Rickie grows up.Social ethical value is distorted under a decadent society as the natural environment is worsening and relationships among humans are alienated.The remote familial relationships and unsuccessful transformation of ethical identity makes Rickie unsure about his own ethical identity,which leads to his tragic end.The third chapter investigates the ethical dilemma and inextricable ethical selection Rickie confronts that result from his confused ethical identity.In complex circumstances and in a depressed,anxious state of mind,Rickie falls into an extreme dilemma involving family morality,professional ethics,and marriage.Oppressive working environment and boring marital life place Rickie in a hopeless situation.Itseems Rickie cannot get out of these life predicaments no matter how hard he tries.The fourth chapter focuses on the approaches Rickie takes to achieve his ethical salvation.Rickie is aware that he has irreconcilable ethical conflicts with the Pembrokes.With the help of Ansell and Stephen,he realizes the ethical plight he is trapped in is being created by a degenerate social environment as well.Finally,Rickie maintains his pursuit for good and love with the price of life.In death,he not only takes responsibility for others but also realizes spiritual transcendence beyond his decadent environment.Chapter five is the conclusion.Forster unfolds the moral dilemma and spiritual crises of the British middle class by narrating Rickie's short life journey.The novel embraces Forster's deep solicitude for shared ethical values and human spiritual circumstances.Forster expresses expectation for a “well-developed heart and a moral society with harmonious relationships.” He hopes sincere connections can be made among humans and that people can attain self-salvation by constantly surmounting difficulties. |
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