Proust's Recherche: A Psychoanalytic Interpretation

This book explores Proust's novel "A la recherche du temps perdu" from a psychoanalytic perspective, highlighting Marcel's unstable equilibrium of opposing forces and his desire to dissolve boundaries between inner and outer worlds while maintaining divisions and defenses. It incorporates findings from modern French psychoanalysis and literary criticism, referencing Jacques Lacan and Jacques Derrida.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating volume, originally published in 1981 and now graced with a fresh preface penned by Randolph Splitter, delves into the depths of Proust's renowned novel, A la recherche du temps perdu. From a psychoanalytic lens, it unveils that Marcel, the central character, mirrors the very essence of the novel itself—a delicate equilibrium of opposing forces. This unstable equilibrium drives Marcel's longing to dissolve the boundaries between the inner and outer realms, while simultaneously cherishing the divisions and defenses that protect him. Instead of imposing a rigid theoretical framework upon the text, this interpretation of Proust's masterpiece illuminates it by engaging in a profound confrontation and re-examination of the issues that Freudian theory itself confronts.

In this exploration, the author incorporates the insights of modern French psychoanalysis and literary criticism, with a special focus on the works of Jacques Lacan and Jacques Derrida. By seamlessly integrating these diverse perspectives, the author crafts a rich tapestry that sheds new light on the intricate nuances of Proust's masterpiece. Through this comprehensive reading, readers are invited to embark on a profound journey of introspection, as they delve into the complex psyche of Marcel and unravel the profound mysteries that lie within the pages of A la recherche du temps perdu.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032624143