Psychological criticism

Definition

Psychological criticism is a literary analysis approach that examines the psychological motivations and emotional states of characters, as well as the author's own psychological background, to understand the deeper meanings within a text. This form of criticism often draws on theories from psychology, particularly those of Freud and Jung, to interpret the complexities of human behavior and relationships in literature. By exploring the subconscious desires, fears, and conflicts of characters, psychological criticism reveals how these elements influence plot development and thematic depth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dostoevsky's works often illustrate psychological conflict, particularly through characters like Raskolnikov in 'Crime and Punishment', where inner turmoil drives the plot.
2. Tolstoy's exploration of moral dilemmas in characters such as Anna Karenina allows for a deep psychological analysis of guilt and societal pressures.
3. Chekhov's short stories reveal character motivations through subtle emotional cues and interactions, emphasizing the complexity of human relationships.
4. Psychological criticism can also involve examining an author's personal life and experiences to understand their influence on their literary work.
5. This approach highlights how psychological factors such as trauma, love, and fear shape characters' actions and relationships within the narrative.

Review Questions

• How does psychological criticism help us understand the inner conflicts faced by characters in Dostoevsky's works?
  • Psychological criticism sheds light on the inner conflicts faced by characters like Raskolnikov in 'Crime and Punishment', who struggles with guilt and moral dilemmas. By analyzing his thoughts and emotions, we can see how these internal battles drive his actions and influence the plot. This approach allows readers to appreciate Dostoevsky's insight into human psychology and the complexity of moral choice.
• In what ways does Tolstoy utilize psychological elements in his portrayal of characters in 'Anna Karenina'?
  • Tolstoy employs psychological elements to delve into the motivations behind Anna's choices, exploring themes of love, desire, and societal constraints. Psychological criticism reveals how Anna’s internal struggles with her feelings for Vronsky versus her responsibilities as a mother lead to her tragic downfall. This approach uncovers the profound impact of social expectations on individual psychology, enhancing our understanding of character development.
• Evaluate how Chekhov's use of psychological criticism can change our interpretation of human relationships in his short stories.
  • Chekhov's use of psychological criticism allows readers to interpret human relationships through nuanced emotional interactions and underlying motivations. By focusing on subtle cues rather than overt actions, we gain insight into characters' inner lives and their struggles with loneliness or desire. This analysis leads to a richer understanding of how Chekhov captures the complexities of human nature and interpersonal connections in his narratives.

Related terms

Freudian Analysis: A method of psychological criticism based on Sigmund Freud's theories, focusing on the influence of the unconscious mind, repression, and sexual drives on human behavior and creativity.

Jungian Archetypes: Concepts introduced by Carl Jung that represent universal symbols or themes found across cultures, often analyzed in literature to explore shared human experiences.

Character Motivation: The reasons behind a character's actions and decisions in a story, crucial for understanding their development and the overall narrative.