Реферат: Master Builder Freudian Symbols Essay Research Paper

to obtain either gratification of redemption through sex. Instead, he plummets to his

death and Hilda is left staring at the tower of possibilities. Without Solness, there could

be no castle and her superego is refused fulfillment.

It is also very necessary to note the impact Freud?s symbols have on minor

characters as well as the major ones. Kaja is the one character with steady control over

her own identity. She is secure in her sexuality; this can be portrayed by her profession

as bookkeeper. According to Freud, ?weapons and tools generally stand for male

genitalia, while materials (things worked upon) stand for female genitalia? (Sulloway

338). Although Kaja uses a pencil (male), she is a keeper of books (female), and as a

result, has created a very even balance for her sexuality. Unfortunately, even she can not

resist the strength of the superego which is represented by old Solness.

Through a careful examination of the symbols used in Henrik Ibsen?s The Master

Builder, a very successful Freudian analysis of the play and its characterizations can be

revealed. Indeed, it becomes clear that the characters are driven by forces – sexual forces

- quite out of their control, and it is the forces which ultimately destroy Solness? life and

Hilda?s chance for gratification.