欲望与思考之旅 : 中国现代作家的南洋与英美游记研究 = Journey of desire and contemplation: A study of Nanyang and England/America travelogues by modern Chinese writers

Abstract

This thesis studies the travelogues on Nanyang and England/America by modern Chinese writers. In analyzing these texts and the context in which they were written, we resort to narratology and Western theories on culture to discuss the desire for and deliberation of modernity, life styles, and living environment as reflected in them. In the section of discussing the Nanyang travelogues, we study the picture of Nanyang, which is mainly an imaginary one, and the various desires expressed through dreaming about gold-mining, sex and amoral encounters. We also discuss the contemplation on the relation between the life styles and living environment and the taste and habits of Chinese while abroad. In the section on the England/America travelogues, we have discussed the modernity expressed by the writers as they directed their attention to the English/American societies, painting a picture for them. We also study the rational choices made and the change of taste and interest during the journeys. In the concluding chapter, through comparison, we highlight the similarities and differences between the Nanyang and England/America travelogues. Moreover, in consideration of its generic features as well as the change of authority over culture, we outline the development of travelogue, and underscore the changes and poignant features found in its writing style, themes, and aesthetic preferences.