A Search For True Self-A Study On Masculinities Of Stevens In The Remains Of The Day

Kazuo Ishiguro was born in Nagasaki,Japan in 1954.He moved with his family to Britain in 1960.He was awarded Book Prize in 1989 and Nobel Prize in literature in 2017 for The Remains of the Day.This novel depicts six-day journey of Stevens to the West when he leaves Darlington Hall for the first time,and his recollection and reflection on his devotion in the past 30 years for Darlington.Based on the theory of masculinities proposed by Connell,this thesis aims to analyze how Stevens is controlled by hegemonic masculinity,and how he separates from it,so as to finally obtain his real self-identity in political identity,social role and his intimate relationships.The first part analyzes the permanence and obstinacy of the influence of hegemonic masculinity on Stevens.To develop his self-consciousness,Stevens must break the myth of hegemonic masculinity and get rid of its controls over his thought and behavior.The second part estimates how men,as marginalized types in the social division of labor,resolve their identity crisis.On the basis of establishing an equal relationship with nobility,brave assumption of social responsibilities can help marginalized masculinity get out of their dilemma.The third part examines how the restriction of masculinity on men’s emotional expression causes Stevens’identity crisis and proposes that expressing his true feelings is the feasible strategy to solve it.Stevens,preoccupied by his urge to become a so-called great and dignified butler,comes to realize the significance of love,family,and friendship in the journey.Stevens regains his subjectivity and he eventually becomes a brave,strong and independent man.