Lolita

Definition

'Lolita' is a term that originates from Vladimir Nabokov's novel of the same name, where it describes a young girl who becomes the object of obsession for an adult man. The term has come to represent themes of forbidden desire, innocence corrupted, and the complexities of manipulation and power dynamics in relationships. It reflects how narratives can be shaped by point of view, emphasizing subjective perceptions and the moral ambiguities that can arise in storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Lolita' was published in 1955 and has since sparked considerable controversy due to its provocative themes and portrayal of complex human emotions.
2. The story is narrated by Humbert Humbert, whose unreliable narration invites readers to grapple with moral ambiguity and question the nature of his obsession.
3. Humbert's perspective not only paints Lolita as an object of desire but also manipulates the narrative to elicit sympathy for his character, challenging conventional morality.
4. The novel has influenced various aspects of culture, spawning discussions around art, censorship, and the nature of desire, and has led to the creation of the term 'Lolita' as a descriptor for similar themes in literature and media.
5. 'Lolita' is not just about sexual obsession; it also explores deeper themes such as loss, nostalgia, and the destructive impact of obsession on both individuals involved.

Review Questions

• How does Humbert Humbert’s perspective as an unreliable narrator affect readers’ understanding of Lolita's character?
  • Humbert Humbert's role as an unreliable narrator significantly shapes how readers perceive Lolita. His skewed viewpoint often presents her as both innocent and seductive, which complicates the moral implications of his obsession. This manipulation leads readers to grapple with their feelings toward Lolita and question her agency, highlighting the complexities of power dynamics within their relationship.
• Analyze how Nabokov's use of language in 'Lolita' enhances the themes of obsession and manipulation present in the story.
  • 'Lolita' employs rich, lyrical language that elevates its themes of obsession and manipulation. Nabokov's intricate wordplay and evocative imagery create a sense of allure surrounding Lolita while simultaneously revealing the darkness of Humbert's desires. This duality in language forces readers to navigate the seductive prose while confronting the disturbing reality of the characters’ interactions.
• Evaluate the cultural impact of 'Lolita' since its publication, particularly regarding societal views on obsession and morality.
  • 'Lolita' has had a profound cultural impact since its release, challenging societal views on obsession and morality. The novel's controversial themes have spurred debates about art versus morality, prompting discussions about censorship and artistic expression. It has become a lens through which various media explore similar themes, leading to a broader discourse on sexual politics and the representation of childhood innocence, shaping contemporary narratives around these issues.

Related terms

Pédophilie: 'Pédophilie' refers to the sexual attraction to prepubescent children, a central theme in 'Lolita' that raises significant ethical and moral questions about desire and exploitation.

Narrative Perspective: 'Narrative perspective' is the lens through which a story is told, which in 'Lolita' is primarily through the unreliable narration of Humbert Humbert, complicating the reader's understanding of events and characters.

Unreliable Narrator:

'Unreliable narrator' describes a narrator whose credibility is compromised, as seen in 'Lolita,' where Humbert's skewed viewpoint influences how readers perceive his actions and motivations.