Freudian Psychoanalysis Flashcards
(21 cards)
What is Freudian Psychoanalysis?
A theory developed by Sigmund Freud about how the human mind works, driven by unconscious desires and internal conflicts.
What are the three parts of the psyche according to Freud?
- The Id (instincts)
- The Ego (reality)
- The Superego (morality)
What is the Id?
The primitive part of the mind that operates on the pleasure principle and seeks immediate satisfaction of desires.
What principle does the Id operate on?
The pleasure principle.
What is the Ego?
The rational part of the mind that balances the desires of the Id with the real world.
What role does the Superego play?
It acts as the conscience, developing from parental and societal rules and judging right from wrong.
How does Eric Birling represent the Id?
He acts on impulse, driven by desire and instinct, and feels guilt afterward.
What behaviors characterize Eric Birling’s actions?
- Drinks excessively
- Steals money
- Forces himself on Eva
How does Mr. Birling embody the Ego?
He tries to act rationally and in self-interest, balancing appearances and reputation without a moral center.
What justification does Mr. Birling use for his selfishness?
Capitalist logic.
What does the Inspector represent in Freudian terms?
The Superego, serving as the moral conscience of the play.
How does the Inspector challenge the other characters?
He urges them to take responsibility and feel empathy.
What does the Inspector say about responsibility?
“We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other.”
What is the significance of repression in Freud’s theory?
People push uncomfortable truths into the unconscious, affecting behavior.
Which characters begin to acknowledge their unconscious guilt?
- Sheila
- Eric
What does Mr. Birling claim about responsibility?
“I can’t accept any responsibility.”
What conclusion does Priestley draw about acknowledging wrongdoing?
Without acknowledging our unconscious wrongdoing, we can never truly change.
Fill in the blank: Eric represents the uncontrolled ___.
id
Fill in the blank: Mr. Birling represents the self-justifying ___.
ego
Fill in the blank: The Inspector embodies the ___.
superego
True or False: The Superego is characterized by impulse and desire.
False
