Self-deception

Definition

Self-deception is the act of lying to oneself or believing something that is not true, often to avoid confronting uncomfortable truths or realities. This psychological mechanism allows individuals to maintain a positive self-image or cope with situations that challenge their beliefs. In literature, self-deception can serve as a means of critiquing societal norms, revealing the inner conflicts and contradictions of characters, and illustrating the complexity of human behavior.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the works of Machado de Assis, self-deception is often portrayed through complex characters who struggle with their own identities and societal expectations.
2. Machado uses self-deception to critique social structures, revealing how individuals manipulate their perceptions to fit into rigid societal norms.
3. The theme of self-deception highlights the psychological depth in Machado's characters, showcasing their internal struggles and moral ambiguities.
4. Machado's narratives often demonstrate that self-deception can lead to tragic outcomes, as characters fail to confront their realities and the consequences of their choices.
5. The exploration of self-deception in Machado's works serves as a mirror for readers, prompting them to reflect on their own beliefs and perceptions.

Review Questions

• How does Machado de Assis portray self-deception in his characters, and what impact does this have on their development?
  • Machado de Assis portrays self-deception through multifaceted characters who grapple with their identities amidst societal pressures. This portrayal allows readers to see how self-deception complicates their growth and relationships, often leading to internal conflict. As characters navigate their lies and half-truths, they reveal deeper truths about human nature and the complexities of social interaction.
• Discuss the ways in which self-deception serves as a social critique in Machado's works.
  • Self-deception in Machado's works acts as a lens through which the author critiques societal norms and expectations. By showcasing characters who deceive themselves to conform to these standards, Machado highlights the absurdities and contradictions within social structures. This critique encourages readers to question the validity of societal roles and the lengths individuals will go to maintain an illusion of normalcy.
• Evaluate the significance of self-deception in understanding human behavior in Machado de Assis's literature, considering its psychological implications.
  • The significance of self-deception in Machado de Assis's literature lies in its ability to reveal profound insights into human behavior and psychology. By examining how characters construct false narratives about themselves, readers gain an understanding of the motivations behind their actions and decisions. This exploration leads to a deeper comprehension of the human condition, illustrating how self-deception can protect individuals from harsh realities but ultimately leads to personal downfall when faced with truth.

Related terms

Cognitive Dissonance: A psychological theory suggesting that individuals experience discomfort when holding conflicting beliefs, leading them to rationalize or justify their actions.

Denial: A defense mechanism where an individual refuses to accept reality or facts, often as a way to protect themselves from emotional pain.

Projection: A psychological defense mechanism in which individuals attribute their own undesirable thoughts, feelings, or motives to others.