A320200062

Amanda Paramesti

Class I

Psychoanalysis

Psychoanalysis, as applied to literature, involves the study of psychological elements and

unconscious motivations present in literary works. It draws upon the theories and concepts developed
by Sigmund Freud and other psychoanalytic thinkers. The goal of psychoanalytic analysis in literature is
to uncover the hidden desires, conflicts, and psychological dynamics within the text and explore their
symbolic and psychological significance.

1. Unconscious Mind:

Psychoanalytic analysis recognizes the influence of the unconscious mind on literary texts. It explores
the presence of repressed thoughts, desires, and fears that manifest in symbolic form within the text.
Characters, plot elements, and imagery may reflect unconscious processes and desires.

2. Dreams and Symbols:

Psychoanalysis explores the use of dreams, symbols, and metaphors in literature. It recognizes that
symbols and metaphors can represent unconscious desires or fears, allowing for the expression of
hidden emotions and conflicts.

3. Oedipus Complex:

One of the central concepts in psychoanalysis is the Oedipus complex, which refers to the unconscious
feelings of love and rivalry a child has toward their parent of the opposite sex. Psychoanalytic analysis
explores how this complex manifests in literature, particularly in relationships between characters and
themes of desire and conflict.

4. Psychological Development:

Psychoanalytic analysis examines how a character's psychological development and experiences shape
their thoughts, actions, and relationships within the literary work. It considers how childhood
experiences and early relationships influence the character's psyche and behavior.

5. Defense Mechanisms:

Psychoanalysis identifies defense mechanisms as psychological strategies that individuals use to cope
with anxiety and protect themselves from distressing thoughts or emotions. In literature, these defense
mechanisms may be reflected through character traits or actions that serve as a means of psychological
self-preservation.

6. Subtext and Unconscious Motivations:

Psychoanalytic analysis delves into the subtext of a literary work, looking beyond the surface level to
uncover hidden meanings and unconscious motivations. It explores the unspoken desires, fears, and
conflicts that underlie the actions and relationships portrayed in the text.
7. Reader's Response:

Psychoanalytic analysis acknowledges that the reader's own unconscious desires, fears, and experiences
can influence their interpretation and response to a literary work. It recognizes that different readers
may uncover different psychological meanings within the same text.