Psychological Criticism

Psychological criticism is an approach that analyzes literature by exploring the mental states and motivations of characters and authors. It draws on psychology, especially theories of Freud and Jung, to interpret how subconscious desires, fears, and conflicts shape narratives. This criticism examines elements like dreams, symbols, and relationships to uncover deeper meanings in a text, suggesting that stories often reflect the human psyche's complexities. By understanding these psychological dynamics, readers can gain insight into the characters' behaviors and the author's intentions, enriching their overall experience with the work.