Abstract:It is the novel, Cold Mountain that makes Charles Frazier famous, and that also arouses the interest of many experts and professors. It can be compared with Gone with the Wind. Both are classic works in the 20th century American literature. The book, which is set against the American Civil War, tells us a story about Inman, the hero, who tried to run away from the cruel war, encountering many difficulties during his journey back home. Although he finally reunited with his lover, Ada, he was killed by the Home guards in the end. In addition to the discussion of the cruel civil war, it is a great romance about love, friendship and kindness, which also represents the magic and gracious nature.

The emphasis of this thesis is put on the multiple themes, which include war, homeward journey and love. Firstly, it will introduce the author, the historical background and its current research. The second chapter, as the main part, will dwell on the multiple themes, which are war, homeward journey and love. It will analyze the effects of war on people from physical and spiritual aspects, what Inman observed and experienced during his journey, as well as the abiding and faithful love between Inman and Ada that gives them spiritual support and makes their transformation. The final chapter makes a summary by exploring the general thematic concern over the war-plagued human physical and spiritual living situation disclosed in the book. Through close reading and thematic analysis, we can interpret better the anti-war sentiment hidden in the book, the healing power of love, as well as the author’s general concern over human beings’ living conditions as a whole.      

Keywords:  Cold Mountain  multiple themes  war  homeward journey  love 

Contents

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introuduction-1

1.1-Brief Introduction to Charles Frazier-1

1.2-The Background and Main Idea of Cold Mountain-1

1.3-Literature Review-1

Chapter Two The Multiple Themes in Cold Mountain-3

2.1 Anti-war Theme in Cold Mountain-3

2.1.1 War’s Effect on Human Body-3

2.1.2 War’s Effect on Human Spirit-4

2.2 A Journey like Odysseus-5

2.2.1 Inman’s Homeward Journey-5

2.2.1 Inman’s Spiritual Journey-6

2.3 The Love Story of Inman and Ada-8

2.3.1 Love’s Function as the Resource of Strength-8

2.3.2 Love’s Function for Ada’s Transformation-8

Chapter Three Conlusion-10

References-11