Equus: Day 2; Psychological Criticism
When examining a novel, poem, play or film, a certain image or line may repeat an idea, theme, object, etc. Taken together, this object, event, or idea becomes a motif and/or a symbol representing something larger than itself.
As viewers or listeners we need to be aware that this is occurring so that we understand what the author intended -- it works the same way in visual art. A viewer must be able to decode the visual symbols the artist creates in order to understand the message or meaning of the work.
As writers, we can utilize this technique to strengthen our writing. Try it by choosing a draft of a story you have already written. Repeat a key idea, phrase, line, or use an object or event to create a motif or symbol. Imbue it with meaning by stressing it. Don't explain the metaphor. Let it be, but call attention to it by suggesting connections subtly. As you read Equus, try noticing how an author uses a motif with craft and grace.
Also, please examine the character you chose (Dysart, Alan, Frank, Dora, or Hesther) and examine their psychology. Analyze who these characters are and how they tick.
Some things to look for:
As viewers or listeners we need to be aware that this is occurring so that we understand what the author intended -- it works the same way in visual art. A viewer must be able to decode the visual symbols the artist creates in order to understand the message or meaning of the work.
As writers, we can utilize this technique to strengthen our writing. Try it by choosing a draft of a story you have already written. Repeat a key idea, phrase, line, or use an object or event to create a motif or symbol. Imbue it with meaning by stressing it. Don't explain the metaphor. Let it be, but call attention to it by suggesting connections subtly. As you read Equus, try noticing how an author uses a motif with craft and grace.
Also, please examine the character you chose (Dysart, Alan, Frank, Dora, or Hesther) and examine their psychology. Analyze who these characters are and how they tick.
Some things to look for:
- Freud's ideas of ego, superego, id; the pleasure and reality principal, the Oedipus Complex, defense mechanisms, etc.
- Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
- Pavlov's conditioning response
- Personality disorders
- Erich Fromm's personality types
- Jungian Archetypes
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