The Analysis on the Allegorical Application of Aptronym in The Pilgrim’s Progress

【Abstract】Aptronym has been widely utilized in literary works for demonstrating the allegorical meaning. The Pilgrims Progress is a book which has a large amount of use of aptronym. This article aims to discuss the profound significance which is enclosed by the allegorical application of aptronym in the book.

【Key words】aptronym； allegorical application； The Pilgrims Progress

I. Introduction

The Pilgrims Progress is the most outstanding work of John Bunyan and occupies the paramount part of English religious literature. It is a book that makes the most of plentiful aptronym and allegory to arouse the thinking and imagination of people so that has been researched by scholars for years and to some extent obtains the achievements.

Li gives the definition of allegory and explains the spiritual significance of usage of allegory to the salvation（2015）. Liu considers that Bunyan followed the conventional form of English writing but endowed that work with vivid metaphor and character. They focus on the field of the profound meaning and writing skills. This article will deeply analyze the allegorical application of aptronym in this magnificent work and show the function by taking the salient examples.

II. The demonstration and function of the allegorical application of aptronym.

Hu defines the aptronym as “a name befitting the occupation， role， or nature of a person or character”.（2006） It is widely affirmed that the aptronym has been well used in The Pilgrims Progress by identifying the name of character and up to the number of 94. Bunyan conceptualized the character and place in order to satirize the bad-behavior things in reality and advocate the morality to enlighten the people.

The usage of aptronym directly reveals the immoral behavior of character and exaggerates the effect to disclose the contradiction and amusement of social phenomenon. Taking “timidity” and “misgiving” as example， they rush down when the Christian is ready to arrive the summit and the reason why they give up insisting on is moving further will face more difficulties so that they decide to turn back to previous road. （Wu 2008） The behavior of the two characters can be seen commonly in society on those who lack of spirit of adventure and confidence. Bunyan presents his sarcasm and redicule by well-designed name of character.

The character who represents the kindness and morality featuring the function of enlightenment by comparison with those contain opposed meanings. The main character “Christian” and the well-meaning people he has met during the period of salvation， such as “faithful”， “hope”， “preacher”， “loyalty” etc. They provide help or keep company with the Christian to seek for the right way to Celestial City. The names like Mr. liar， Mr. Cruelty， Mr Heady， Mr. Malice， Mr. No-good etc leave the ignoble impression on people according to the evil things they have done， and hence people are taught that how important to pursue the goal by hard working rather than taking a short cut.

III. Conclusion

The application of aptronym shows authors ironic view of the immorality which exists in the contemporary society and to great extent has educational influence on the enlightenment of human beings. The article offers reference to the research of aptronym and irony on The Pilgrims Progress while with the disadvantage of few examples and superficial expression. It has similarity with other researches concerning the chosen aspect but creates the method of comparison. The research will be more creative and forceful by widening the range of view and exploring the deeper meaning.

References：

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作者简介：马艺玮（1997-），女，汉族，黑龙江鹤岗人，哈尔滨工程大学外语系本科生，研究方向：翻译理论与实践。endprint