The internal world of Don Giovanni
127 Normanby Road, London NW10 1BU, UK. rjr27@waitrose.com
The International Journal of Psycho-Analysis
|February 23, 2008
Summary
Mozart's Don Giovanni is musically depicted as an empty character using narcissistic defenses. His music reveals projective identification, contrasting with the more complex sensuality of other characters.
Area of Science:
- Musicology
- Psychoanalytic theory
- Literary criticism
Background:
- Don Giovanni is often idealized for power and vitality.
- A psychoanalytic interpretation of Don Giovanni's character is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the psychological underpinnings of Don Giovanni's character through Mozart's music.
- To explore the concept of phallic narcissism in the opera.
Main Methods:
- Musical analysis of Don Giovanni.
- Application of psychoanalytic concepts (e.g., projective identification).
- Comparative analysis of character portrayals.
Main Results:
- Mozart's music portrays Don Giovanni as psychologically empty, employing phallic narcissism.
- Don Giovanni uses projective identification to externalize internal pain.
- The opera contrasts Giovanni's defenses with the complex sensuality of other characters, particularly women.
Conclusions:
- Don Giovanni's disturbing impact stems from his narcissistic defenses and projection of pain.
- Mozart's music offers a nuanced critique of narcissistic character structures.
- The opera highlights the contrast between superficial vitality and deeper emotional complexity.
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