Symbol of Patriarchy:An Analysis of Caesar in'A New England Nun'

摘要

Caesar,the chained dog in“A New England Nun”by Mary Wilkins Freeman in 1891,has become the spotlight of discussion since its publication.Most critics have equated it with Louisa Ellis’s solitary spinsterhood rather than seeing it as a symbol of patriarchy.However,based on the close reading approach,a careful analysis of Caesar reveals that it is a symbol of patriarchy for its close connection with Joe Dagget.And the imprisonment of Caesar is of great significance to Louisa,unveiling her steadfast determination to break the shackle of patriarchy.