Abstract: Sula is one of Morrison’s earlier works, which creates various vivid, lively black women images. It is based on the hint of the relationship between Sula and Nel, representing how black women suffer from dilemma and alienation during self-identity seeking. This article aims at analyzing Nel’s trauma and alienation from the perspective of Fromm’s psychoanalysis – alienation theory, and tries to find some effective ways to heal.

Key words: Sula; Nel; psychoanalysis; alienation; depression and sublimation

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1.-Introduction-1

1.1-Toni Morrison and her Sula-1

1.2-Fromm’s View on Alienation-2

1.3-Literature Review-3

2.-The Process of Depression and Alienated Self in Nel-5

2.1 Traumatic Experience during the Trip South-6

2.2 Interpersonal Relationship with the Acquaintance of Sula-8

2.3 Self Alienation after Permanent Emotional Repression-10

3. The Root of Nel’s Pervasive Alienation and Its Causes-11

3.1-The Reason of Nel’s Pervasive Alienation-11

3.2-The Major Factor: Society-External Causes-13

3.3-The Minor Factor: Human Nature-Internal Causes-13

4. The Liberation from Alienation in Nel-14

4.1 Awareness of Self Alienation-14

4.2 The Embodiment of Sublimation-16

5. Conclusion-17

References-19