Abstract：The Millstone, written by Margaret Drabble, an English woman writer, tells a story about Rosamund, an intellectual woman, becoming an unmarried mother. This thesis firstly analyzes Rosamund’s third space with Edward Soja’s third space theory and argues that Rosamund’s third space is deconstruction of traditional spatial concept and deconstruction of gender binary opposition. Secondly this thesis analyzes the development of Rosamund’s third space with the conclusion that her third space gives her power and helps her overcome many hardships. Finally, this thesis aims that it could be a reference to enrich the dimension of The Millstone studies.

Keywords：Margaret Drabble; The Millstone; Female Third Space; Rosamund

CONTENTS

ABSTRACT

中文摘要

Chapter One INTRODUCTION-1

1.1 Margaret Drabble and The Millstone-1

1.2 The Framework of the Thesis-2

Chapter Two LITERATURE REVIEW-3

Chapter Three THIRD SPACE-5

3.1 Edward Soja and Third Space Theory-5

3.2 The Third Space in The Millstone-7

3.2.1 Deconstruction of traditional spatial concept-7

3.2.2 Deconstruction of gender binary opposition-8

Chapter Four DEVELPOMENT OF ROSAMUND’S THIRD SPACE-10

4.1 Rosamund’s Third Space before Pregnancy-10

4.2 Rosamund’s Third Space after Pregnancy-11

Chapter Five CONCLUSION-15

WORKS CITED-17