Guarding, Waiting, Wisdom—the Analysis of Ada in Cold Mountain from the Perspective of Myth Criticism

Abstract

Cold Mountain, as Charles Frazier’s first work, achieved great success immediately upon its publication and was hailed as an American Odyssey. This study employs Northrop Frye’s myth criticism to examine Ada Monroe, the female protagonist, as a modern reincarnation of Penelope in the Odyssey. Through analyzing Ada from the archetype of Penelope as the waiting figure, the homeland guardian, and the wise woman, this study demonstrates how Ada both perpetuates and transforms ancient mythic patterns so as to form a better understanding of her image and her further transformation into an independent woman, as well as woman’s own strength, providing insights for the contemporary society.