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The Orpheus complex.

T Dawson1

  • 1Department of English Language and Literature, National University of Singapore, Block AS5, 7 Arts Link, Singapore 117570.

The Journal of Analytical Psychology
|October 10, 2003
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

This study explores the psychological impact of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth in modern adaptations. It suggests men may soon detach from the

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Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Mythology Studies
  • Literary Criticism

Background:

  • The enduring Orpheus and Eurydice myth offers a framework for understanding psychological states.
  • Two 1997 adaptations, Woody Allen's 'Deconstructing Harry' and Kathy Acker's 'Eurydice in the Underworld,' provide distinct gendered perspectives.
  • The mythic pattern encapsulates loss, yearning, depression, and psychological inflation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the psychological implications of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth in contemporary adaptations.
  • To define the core 'necessary events' and 'mythic pattern' within the Orpheus and Eurydice narrative.
  • To explore gendered psychological complexes ('Orpheus complex' vs. 'Eurydice complex') within the adaptations.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative analysis of two 1997 adaptations: 'Deconstructing Harry' (film) and 'Eurydice in the Underworld' (short story).

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  • Identification and examination of the four 'necessary events' constituting the mythic pattern.
  • Psychological interpretation of the film and short story through the lens of 'Orpheus complex' and 'Eurydice complex'.

    • Main Results:

    • The mythic pattern, comprising four key events, represents a cycle of loss, depression, and psychological inflation.
    • 'Deconstructing Harry' exemplifies an 'Orpheus complex,' while Acker's story reflects an 'Eurydice complex.'
    • Women may find it easier to disengage from the mythic pattern compared to men.

    Conclusions:

    • The Orpheus and Eurydice myth continues to resonate due to its representation of universal psychological experiences.
    • Modern adaptations reveal gendered psychological dynamics, with distinct 'Orpheus' and 'Eurydice' complexes.
    • There is a potential for both genders, particularly men, to achieve psychological liberation from this mythic pattern.