Abstract: This paper aims at analyzing the humanitarian spirit reflected in O. Henry’s short stories in the perspective of his writing style “smile with tears”. Comparisons are made to present the three different attitudes that O. Henry shows towards the ordinary people. It attempts to analyze the humanity in different stories so as to learn O. Henry’s humanism in his writings. Detailed analysis is provided with quotes from the original text and relative bibliography by means of information retrieval.

Key words: O. Henry; short stories; humanity; smile with tears

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction1

1.1 O. Henry and His Life Experience

1.2 O. Henry’s Literary Achievements and Writing Styles

2. Analysis from the Perspective of Smile with Tears2

2.1 Criticism towards the Human Defects..2

2.1.1 Over-emphasized Pursuit of Money

2.1.2 Negligence of Duty and Disrespect for Law

2.2 Appreciation of the Human Virtues..5

2.2.1 Great Kindness at the Cost of Life

2.2.2 True Love and Sacrifice

2.3 Encouragement to the Stragglers..7

2.3.1 Passion for Life

2.3.2 Care from the Family

3. Conclusion..9

Bibliography..11

Acknowledgements...12