Beatrice Mchugh L&S Arts & Humanities
Precision and Vagueness in Language and Narrative in Nabokov's Novels
My thesis explores the aesthetic dialogue created by Nabokov in his usage and treatment of language. Through the apparent precision to which Nabokov’s language gestures, he in fact exposes the vagueness inherent in words. In doing so he facilitates the reader’s interrogation of the text as the creation of its author as well as their own subjectivity as reader, the consumer of its language. We must consider the connotative and denotative values of words; what each word has the potential to embody as well as what rifts it may expose practically and philosophically. In my treatment of Nabokov’s English novels, with an emphasis on “Bend Sinister,” I hope to suggest a link between Nabokov’s creation and usage of language and his aesthetic considerations as an author.
Message To Sponsor
Dear Anselm, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude for your support in my endeavor this summer. I truly benefited, and profoundly so, from the time I spent in research, in thought, and in writing (and rewriting!). It was a pleasure for me to have this opportunity and to feel that my work is actually valued, a feeling I was able to experience thanks to your generosity. It has given me a new outlook on research and further motivated me to pursue education beyond my bachelor's. Thank you!