Abstract: Beyond the Horizon is a tragedy by Eugene O’Neil. Ruth is the heroine in the play. This paper researches the causes of Ruth’s tragedy in her love, marriage, and family life. It comes up with some practical suggestions for females on running a happy family. This thesis analyzes, from both objective and subjective perspectives, the differences of males and females in strength and mentality, social prejudices against females, Ruth’s infidelity to love and marriage, and her lack of understanding. It points out how the above-mentioned causes are combined to impact her tragically. Although Ruth cannot avoid the objective influences, she can still encounter the tough life with an active attitude and have her independent life.

Key words: Beyond the Horizon; Ruth; Tragedy; Causes

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction1

  1.1 Brief Introduction to Eugene O’Neil

  1.2 Literature Review

2. Causes of Ruth’s Tragedy in Beyond the Horizon..3

2.1 Objective Causes

  2.1.1 Differences between Males and Females

  2.1.2 Social prejudices Against Females

2.2 Subjective Causes

2.2.1 Lack of Loyalty

2.2.2 Lack of family responsibility

3. Conclusion.9

Bibliography.11

Acknowledgements..12