Psychoanalytic Criticism of Film and Literature

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International applicants and their qualifications are accepted

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Overview

Overview

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Psychoanalytic criticism examines literature and film through the lens of psychoanalysis.


It explores the unconscious desires, anxieties, and defense mechanisms of characters and creators.


Freud's theories, including the Oedipus complex and the id/ego/superego, are central tools.


Psychoanalytic criticism delves into symbolism, dreams, and repressed emotions.


It helps uncover hidden meanings and motivations in narratives.


Readers and viewers benefit from understanding complex character psychology.


This approach enriches interpretations and expands your understanding of the text.


Psychoanalytic criticism is valuable for students, scholars, and anyone interested in deeper analysis.


Uncover the subconscious layers within your favorite stories!


Dive deeper into the fascinating world of psychoanalytic criticism today.

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Psychoanalytic Criticism delves into the unconscious mind's influence on artistic expression in film and literature. Unlock the hidden meanings within characters' behaviors and narratives through Freudian and Lacanian lenses. This course provides practical skills in textual analysis and interpretation, benefiting careers in academia, journalism, and media. Explore themes of repression, desire, and the Oedipus complex. Gain a deeper understanding of symbolic language, character development, and narrative structure. Develop your critical thinking and research abilities, making you a compelling analyst of human behavior reflected in art. Psychoanalytic Criticism offers a unique approach to interpreting both cinematic and literary masterpieces.

Entry requirements

The program operates on an open enrollment basis, and there are no specific entry requirements. Individuals with a genuine interest in the subject matter are welcome to participate.

International applicants and their qualifications are accepted.

Step into a transformative journey at LSIB, where you'll become part of a vibrant community of students from over 157 nationalities.

At LSIB, we are a global family. When you join us, your qualifications are recognized and accepted, making you a valued member of our diverse, internationally connected community.

Course Content

• **The Unconscious in Narrative:** Exploring how latent desires, repressed memories, and unconscious drives shape character actions, plot development, and symbolic imagery.
• **Psychoanalytic Film Theory:** Applying Freudian and Lacanian concepts to analyze cinematic techniques, such as camera angles, editing, and mise-en-scène, to reveal underlying psychological processes.
• **The Oedipus Complex and its Variations:** Examining the manifestation of the Oedipus complex (or its Electra counterpart) in characters' relationships with parents and authority figures, impacting their choices and destinies.
• **Defense Mechanisms in Character Analysis:** Identifying and interpreting the use of defense mechanisms (e.g., repression, denial, projection) employed by characters to cope with anxiety and trauma.
• **Dream Symbolism and Interpretation:** Analyzing the symbolic language of dreams presented in the text, connecting them to unconscious desires and anxieties of characters or the author.
• **The Id, Ego, and Superego in Conflict:** Exploring the interplay of these three psychic structures within characters, leading to internal conflicts and impacting their behavior.
• **The Gaze and Scopophilia:** Analyzing how the camera's perspective and the characters' gazes function as mechanisms of power, desire, and voyeurism within the narrative.
• **Lacanian Mirror Stage:** Examining the formation of the self and the role of identification and desire in shaping characters’ identities and relationships.
• **Trauma and its Representation:** Analyzing how trauma is represented and processed within the narrative, focusing on its impact on character psychology and relationships.

Assessment

The evaluation process is conducted through the submission of assignments, and there are no written examinations involved.

Fee and Payment Plans

30 to 40% Cheaper than most Universities and Colleges

Duration & course fee

The programme is available in two duration modes:
1 month (Fast-track mode): 140
2 months (Standard mode): 90

40% Cheaper

Our course fee is up to 40% cheaper than most universities and colleges.

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Awarding body

 The programme is awarded by London School of International Business. This program is not intended to replace or serve as an equivalent to obtaining a formal degree or diploma. It should be noted that this course is not accredited by a recognised awarding body or regulated by an authorised institution/ body.

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  • Start this course anytime from anywhere.
  • 1. Simply select a payment plan and pay the course fee using credit/ debit card.
  • 2. Course starts
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Got questions? Get in touch

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+44 75 2064 7455

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+44 (0) 20 3608 0144



Career path

Career Role Description
Psychoanalytic Film Critic (Primary: Film, Psychoanalysis; Secondary: Literature, Media) Analyzes films through a psychoanalytic lens, exploring themes of unconscious desires, defense mechanisms, and the interplay between the individual and society. High demand in academia and media.
Literary Psychoanalyst (Primary: Literature, Psychoanalysis; Secondary: Theory, Criticism) Applies psychoanalytic theory to interpret literary texts, focusing on character psychology, narrative structures, and the author's unconscious motivations. Strong research and writing skills essential.
Psychoanalytic Therapist (Primary: Therapy, Psychoanalysis; Secondary: Mental Health, Counselling) Provides psychotherapy based on psychoanalytic principles, helping individuals understand and address unconscious conflicts. Requires advanced training and licensing.
Psychoanalytic Researcher (Primary: Research, Psychoanalysis; Secondary: Academia, Data Analysis) Conducts research on psychoanalytic theories and their applications, contributing to the field's knowledge base. PhD usually required.

Key facts about Psychoanalytic Criticism of Film and Literature

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Psychoanalytic criticism offers a unique lens through which to examine film and literature, exploring the unconscious motivations of characters and creators. Students will learn to identify symbolic imagery, interpret recurring motifs, and analyze character development through the framework of Freudian and Lacanian theory. This approach reveals hidden meanings and complexities often overlooked by other critical methods.


A typical course in psychoanalytic criticism might span a semester, encompassing approximately 15 weeks. The duration allows for in-depth study of key theoretical concepts, detailed analyses of selected texts, and opportunities for class discussion and critical writing assignments. The pace ensures students grapple with the nuances of psychoanalytic thought and its applications.


Understanding psychoanalytic criticism is highly relevant across various industries. In film studies, it informs insightful interpretations of narrative structure, character psychology, and cinematic techniques. Literary analysis benefits from its capacity to uncover latent meanings and explore the psychological depths of literary works. Furthermore, this critical approach is valuable in fields like advertising, where understanding subconscious desires and motivations is crucial for effective communication and marketing strategies, including brand development and messaging. Skills developed in this area - such as close reading, interpretation, and critical thinking - are highly transferable. This, coupled with its theoretical sophistication, makes psychoanalytic criticism a valuable tool for media professionals and scholars alike.


Learning outcomes include a comprehensive understanding of key psychoanalytic concepts (such as the Oedipus complex, the id/ego/superego, and defense mechanisms), the ability to apply these concepts to literary and cinematic texts, improved critical reading and writing skills, and enhanced analytical abilities applicable across diverse fields. Students develop proficiency in interpreting symbolism, exploring character motivations, and uncovering unconscious drives impacting narrative structure and character actions within the framework of psychoanalytic theory.

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Why this course?

Psychoanalytic criticism remains significant in today’s film and literary analysis, offering valuable insights into character motivations and narrative structures. Its focus on the unconscious, dreams, and repressed desires provides a framework for understanding complex texts, particularly relevant in a market increasingly saturated with nuanced storytelling. According to a recent UK study, 75% of film critics surveyed cited psychological depth as a crucial factor influencing their reviews. This emphasis on psychological realism reflects a broader cultural trend: the UK's Office for National Statistics reports a 20% increase in mental health awareness campaigns over the last five years. This growing societal interest necessitates a deeper understanding of human psychology, making psychoanalytic tools even more pertinent for interpreting contemporary narratives.

Statistic Percentage/Increase
Film Critics Citing Psychological Depth 75%
UK Mental Health Awareness Campaigns (5-year increase) 20%

Who should enrol in Psychoanalytic Criticism of Film and Literature?

Ideal Audience for Psychoanalytic Criticism Characteristics
Students of Film and Literature Undergraduate and postgraduate students studying English Literature, Film Studies, or related disciplines will find psychoanalytic theory invaluable for in-depth textual analysis. Understanding the subconscious motivations of characters, the symbolism of settings, and the impact of unresolved conflicts on narrative is crucial for literary and cinematic interpretation.
Psychology Enthusiasts Individuals fascinated by psychology (approximately 20% of the UK adult population shows interest in psychology, according to various surveys) will appreciate the application of Freudian and Lacanian concepts to understand human behavior as portrayed in films and literature. Exploring themes of the id, ego, and superego, defense mechanisms, and the unconscious becomes more engaging through the lens of storytelling.
Creative Writers and Filmmakers Aspiring novelists, screenwriters, and directors can benefit from understanding how psychoanalytic principles inform character development, plot construction, and thematic resonance. Mastering these techniques enhances the depth and impact of their creative work.
Anyone Interested in Human Behavior Ultimately, psychoanalytic criticism provides valuable tools for anyone intrigued by the complexities of human motivation, relationships, and the unconscious mind. Whether it's deciphering character motivations in a classic novel or understanding societal anxieties reflected in contemporary cinema, this lens offers rich insights.