Peter Shaffer's Equus--a psychoanalytic exploration

In this paper on Equus, an attempt is made to explore from an analytic point of view the psychodynamics of the protagonist, Alan, and his therapist, Dysart. Both the preoedipal and oedipal aspects are discussed. The main thesis of my remarks are aimed at revealing how the author seized upon a real event, namely the blinding of horses by an English lad, and has woven this into his own fantasies. It is emphasized that the playwright in addition employed various sophisticated ego functions that enabled him to express these fantasies in Greek mythological terms (the oedipal myth and the voyage of Agamemnon). The final work then comprises a true creative effort, since, as I mention in my introductory remarks on the creative process, it employs both primary and secondary process thinking and symbolism. The final synthesis represents an eloquent mythopoetic expression and combination of id and ego (autonomous ego functions).