An Ecofeminist Interpretation Of John Fowles' The French Lieutenant's Woman

Many critics have made interpretations of The French Lieutenant's woman from different perspectives. However, very few touched upon the ecofeminist side of the novel. This thesis aims at making completely new interpretations in light of ecofeminist literary criticism, examining Fowles'attitudes towards both women and nature. By analyzing the novel in terms of ecofeminism, this thesis reveals that Fowles supports both the emancipation of women and environmental protection. On the one hand, Fowles rebels against patriarchal values through the characterization of Sarah as a feminist pioneer and Charles a sympathizer of ecofeminism. On the other hand, Fowles reveals the intimate relationship between women and nature and attempts to rebuild a harmonious relationship between human and nature.