Islands in the Stream: A Reconsideration on the Theme of Life-Pursuing from Buddhistic Perspectives

• Main Authors: Hsiao-ting Lu, 呂曉婷
• Other Authors: Chung-liang Ma
• Format: Others
• Language: en_US
• Published: 1999
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/89625314090901070997

碩士 === 國立成功大學 === 外國語文學系 === 87 === Islands in the Stream: A Reconsideration on the Theme of Life-Pursuing from Buddhistic Perspectives Abstract The thesis is based on Buddhistic theories to elaborate on the theme of life-pursuing in Ernest Hemingway's Islands in the Stream. Thomas Hudson's pursuing of life has been considered negative and tragic in most of the critiques. However, from Buddhistic perspectives, the novel suggests a positive attitude toward life. By appropriating the Buddhistic concepts, karma, discrimination and non-discrimination, mindfulness, the development and achievement of Hudson are re-evaluated in a new version. Before the discussions begin, the Buddhistic view of life is introduced in Chapter II. The concepts of karma, discrimination and non-discrimination, mindfulness are elucidated in the chapter. In Chapter III, the theme of life-pursuing is discussed in three aspects. The first focus of the discussions is placed on the problems which hamper Hudson's chase for peace of life. The situations Hudson encounters and his reactions to them are elaborated according to the ideology of karma. The second focus of the discussions is laid on Hudson's emotional difficulties. By appropriating the concepts of discrimination and non-discrimination, his interior transformation from emotional estrangement to emotional intimacy is stated. In the third section of the discussions, Hudson's attainment in the process of his pursuit is considered in the aspect of self-development. The notion of mindfulness in Buddhism is contemplated here to evaluate Hudson's ascendance of mind. In conclusion, the Buddhistic concepts have provided the discussions in the thesis with positive perspectives viewing the theme in the novel. The value of Hudson's pursuing of life is appreciated by elaborating his interior awakening, emotional catharsis and mental transcendence.