English Language and Literature ETDs

Publication Date

5-7-1975

Abstract

This thesis concerns a study of the Byronic hero and heroine, and the theme of love, along with supporting imagery. Included in the study are analyses of Childe Harold, The Giaour, The Bride of Abydos, The Corsair, Lara, Manfred, Cain, Sardanapalus, Beppo, and Don Juan.

The Byronic hero is found to be partly a stereotype and partly a complete hero comprised of masculine and feminine principles of behavior. Contrary to many critics' assertions, the Byronic hero does not stand alone, for he always has one true love who ties him to humanity.

The Byronic heroines have some similarities, but are found to be more fully developed characters than just love objects. The heroine participates in dialogue and in action, and is somewhat rebellious like the hero. She will always sacrifice herself for her lover.

The imagery centers around fire and water, clay and spark, and the Fall. Supporting the characterization, the imagery also sustains the thematic concern of love, which has the paradoxical nature of being both a curse and a gift from heaven. Love is seen as saving and destroying, creative and destructive. It is only for the free, the young, and the beautiful. It cannot last in this world; time will destroy it. All love, even ideal love, is damned because of the Fall.

In this thesis the characters of the hero and the heroine, the imagery and the dominating theme of love are all explored and discussed to show the continuity of Byron’s works.

Degree Name

English

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

English

First Committee Member (Chair)

Hoyt Trowbridge

Second Committee Member

Mary Jane Power

Third Committee Member

Ivan Peter Melada

Language

English

Document Type

Dissertation

Download

Share

COinS