Abstract:This thesis mainly makes an analysis of the female discourse in Luisa May Alcott’s novel Little Women. It makes an emphasis on the text from the following three aspects. Firstly, it centers on the semiotics in Little Women. Colors and the construction of self-identity, the use of onomatopoeia and interjection are the reflection of instinct and impulse. They all have different meanings. Secondly, this thesis talks about the performances of female writing. In other words, it talks about the psychological description and body writing in Little Women. Thirdly, it makes a discussion about the features of linguistic behavior in Little Women. By focusing on the description of triviality, it tries to figure out the characteristic in Little Women. By analyzing the female discourse in Little Women, this novel can be better comprehended. What is more, the undertaking of feminist literary criticism will be more understood.

Keywords: Luisa May Alcott; Little Women; female discourse

Contents

Abstract

中文摘要

1. Introduction-1

1.1 Luisa May Alcott and Her Works-1

1.2 Theoretical Basis-2

2. Literature Review-4

3. Analysis of the Female Discourse in Little Women-6

3.1 Semiotics in Little Women-6

3.2 Performances of Female Writing in Little Women-8

3.3 Features of Linguistic Behavior in Little Women-10

4. Conclusion-11

Works Cited-13