To explore the influence of lining components and soil environment on the nonlinear mechanical response of shield tunnel lining, first, the characteristics of rotational stiffness of longitudinal joints derived from the experiments are discussed, and it is believed that the stiffness is controlled by axial force and bending moment. The iterative calculation methods both in analytical and numerical methods are summarized, where the nonlinearity of the joints is considered. Second, the segment′s tests for the cracking characteristics and bearing capacity and the numerical modeling techniques that can consider its nonlinearity are reviewed. And it is concluded that the cracking behavior of concrete has a certain adverse effect on the overall lining, while the behavior of joints is the dominant factor. Third, the treatment methods for soil nonlinearity in common calculation methods are summarized. Several test methods that can further consider the soil nonlinearity are listed. Finally, the development trend of nonlinear analysis methods for shield tunnel lining is prospected. It is recommended to carry out further research on the nonlinear mechanical response of shield tunnel, especially on the bending behavior of longitudinal joints coupled by multiple factors, the cracking, and softening behavior of segments considering material deterioration and fatigue effect, the interaction between soil and lining considering timespace effect. The material library of various joints and multidirectional soil springs should be further established, and the gradual destruction mechanism of lining needs ascertained. Conclusively, the quick calculation and analysis methods of shield tunnel lining based on big data are suggested.