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Mademoiselle de Scudery and the looking-glass self

As a comparative study, this dissertation analyzes the novels of Mademoiselle de Scudery as they relate to theories expounded by twentieth century psychiatrists and psychologists. The looking-glass self concept as a literary and psychological vehicle, expressed by the female characters of Mademoiselle de Scudery's novels, is the focal area of comparison. / The nature of this work promises a vitality and originality as there has never been a scholarly work with this unique orientation. / The relationship of symbols, spirituality, and the unconscious projections of the human psyche are analyzed extensively in the works of Jung, Mademoiselle de Scudery, and other thought-provoking writers. / A biography of Jung and Mademoiselle de Scudery is included in this study as their imaginative creations are expressions of their unique life-styles. More extensive emphasis is placed on Mademoiselle de Scudery's personal life as it is so closely a projection of her personal acquaintances and philosophy. / The scholarly contemporary reader deserves to be exposed to the abilities of this remarkable woman. Her complicated plots, absence of precise descriptions, and extensive study of love are a deterrent to many modern readers. This dissertation attempts to bring a new vitality, comprehension and appreciation for Mademoiselle de Scudery by employing a uniquely contemporary approach. / This dissertation is divided into four chapters followed by a conclusion. The first chapter discusses biographical information about Madeleine du Scudery as it relates to her works as well as to the theories of Jung. In the second chapter selected volumes of Ibrahim are analyzed, with emphasis placed on mirror images, masks, and the Jungian concept of symbols and reflections of man's innermost self. The third chapter explores the looking-glass self concept in designated volumes of Artamene ou Le Grand Cyrus. The point of departure is the maturation and development of mirror-images as they continue to substantiate Jung's philosophical and psychological orientation. The fourth chapter focuses on selected volumes of Clelie with continued exploration of the looking-glass self and its dynamic Jungian qualities. In the conclusion an attempt is made to establish and summarize the intimate relationship between the looking-glass self concept in Mademoiselle de Scudery's female characters and the philosophy of Jung. / Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 49-06, Section: A, page: 1471. / Major Professor: Azzurra B. Givens. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--The Florida State University, 1988.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:fsu.edu/oai:fsu.digital.flvc.org:fsu_76292
ContributorsDavis, Joanne Cramer., Florida State University
Source SetsFlorida State University
LanguageEnglish
Detected LanguageEnglish
TypeText
Format237 p.
RightsOn campus use only.
RelationDissertation Abstracts International

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