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The theatricalization of death
1Department of English and Department of General & Comparative Literature, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel. tzachizamir@mscc.huji.ac.il
The Journal of Medical Humanities
|May 26, 2012
Summary
This essay explores anorexia nervosa as a theatrical performance, examining its dramatic elements like plot, acting style, and suspense. It highlights how these features contribute to the presentation of the disorder.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Literary Criticism
- Performance Studies
Background:
- Anorexia nervosa is a complex eating disorder with significant psychological and social dimensions.
- Understanding the presentation of anorexia nervosa can offer new therapeutic insights.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze anorexia nervosa through the lens of theatrical performance.
- To identify and examine the specific dramatic features employed in the manifestation of anorexia nervosa.
Main Methods:
- The study employs a qualitative analytical approach, drawing from literary criticism and performance studies.
- It dissects anorexia nervosa by identifying its 'acting school,' 'plot,' 'acting style,' 'suspense-establishing mechanisms,' and 'motifs.'
Main Results:
- Anorexia nervosa can be conceptualized as a performance with distinct dramatic structures.
- Specific dramatic elements, such as plot progression and suspense, are integral to the disorder's presentation.
Conclusions:
- Viewing anorexia nervosa as a theatrical performance provides a novel framework for understanding its complexities.
- This perspective may inform new approaches to diagnosis and treatment by focusing on the performative aspects of the disorder.
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