Psychoanalytical Perspective of Shakespeare's Characters in Love

M. Malathy *, Senthil Kumar Sivamathiah**
*-** Department of English, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Semmenjeri, Chennai, India.
Periodicity:January - March'2024
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jelt.14.1.20381

Abstract

This paper delves into the intricate realm of Shakespearean characters in love, employing a psychoanalytical lens to unravel the depths of their emotions, desires, and conflicts. Drawing on psychoanalytic theories, particularly those of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung, this paper aims to dissect the subconscious motivations and psychological intricacies of characters such as Romeo and Juliet, Orsino and Viola, and other iconic figures. Through this analysis, the paper seeks to offer a nuanced understanding of how Shakespeare masterfully crafted characters whose emotional journeys resonate with universal human experiences. In addition to exploring the psychoanalytical aspects of Shakespearean characters' love, this paper also investigates the socio-cultural influences shaping their romantic dynamics. By examining the historical context in which these plays were written and performed, it aims to illuminate the ways in which societal norms and expectations intersect with individual psychology to influence characters' behaviors and choices. Furthermore, it analyzes how Shakespeare's portrayal of love reflects broader themes of power, gender, and identity, shedding light on the complex interplay between personal desire and societal constraints in Renaissance England. Through this multidimensional approach, it endeavors to provide a comprehensive examination of Shakespearean love that resonates with contemporary audiences while honoring the timeless brilliance of the Bard's storytelling.

Keywords

Shakespeare, Psychoanalysis, Love, Characters, Emotions, Freud, Jung, Subconscious Motivations, Romance, Literature.

How to Cite this Article?

Malathy, M., and Sivamathiah, S. K. (2024). Psychoanalytical Perspective of Shakespeare's Characters in Love. i-manager’s Journal on English Language Teaching, 14(1), 54-61. https://doi.org/10.26634/jelt.14.1.20381

References

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[10]. Strachey, J. (2009). Sigmund Freud: The Interpretation of Dreams. A Member of the Perseus Books Group, New York.
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