Nejad Mohammad V, Amiri S. Study of the Archetypes: "Self" and "Shadow" in "The Dinner of the Cypress and Fire" by Shahryar Mandanipour and "On Water" by Guy de Maupassant. CLRJ 2025; 12 (4) :95-131
URL:
http://clrj.modares.ac.ir/article-12-76847-en.html
1- University of Tabriz , va_nejad77@yahoo.fr
2- University of Tabriz
Abstract: (21 Views)
Archetypes serve as fundamental building blocks and inherited attributes of human beings that profoundly influence behavior, manifesting in myths, symbols, and imagery. These archetypes possess an unconscious content that has evolved over millennia within the psyche of humanity. Among these archetypes, the "Self" and "Shadow" hold essential roles in Jungian psychology, aiding in the interpretation of individual identity and the inner conflicts of individuals. In "The Dinner of the Cypress and Fire," the protagonist's quest for identity and self-awareness is portrayed through love and complex human relationships. In contrast, "On Water" depicts the character's journey towards recognition of the other half of the "Self," that is, the "Shadow," confronting existential crises and fears. A deep analysis of the narrative elements reveals that understanding and interpreting the characters through the lens of archetypes not only possess a psychological and symbolic structure but also carry unconscious content. This exploration highlights the mental landscapes of human cultures and recounts the behavioral and experiential patterns of humanity since the dawn of being and authenticity. Overall, this research delves into the archetypes of "Self" and "Shadow" within "The Dinner of the Cypress and Fire" by Shahryar Mandanipour and "On Water" by Guy de Maupassant. The findings of this study underscore the significance of literature as a tool for exploring human psychology and social interactions, indicating that literature can act as a reflective medium for the profound depths of human existence.