MYTHS AND ARCHETYPES - Essay Example

Expounding on the teachings of Jung, Robert Johnson proposes to lend a greater understanding to the Jungian archetypes of anima and animus by using ancient myths as an example of how these theories play out in universal literature. The tale of Parsifal and his search for the Holy Grail lends us insight into the male journey from boyhood to adulthood and his coming to terms with his anima, or unconscious feminine personality traits (Jung). In contrast, the myth of Amor and Psyche delves into the female quest for love and the appearance of the animus, or male aspects to the female’s personality (Jung).

While both of these tales showcase a different perspective on a similar situation, the way in which the female and male characters handle their changing circumstances differs greatly. In the myth of Psyche and Amor, the two are portrayed as star-crossed lovers who are torn apart by the woman’s betrayal and the subsequent anger of Amor’s goddess mother, Venus. The two are eventually reunited at the request of Amor by the gods (Ovid). The story points out the weaknesses of the girl, Psyche, as well as demonstrates the changes to her personality as she matures into a woman.

Psyche begins the piece showing the frailty of the female, the unwitting innocence and naiveté often presented in the very young or inexperienced, especially while searching for love. Venus, in this tale, is a stark contrast to the obvious frailty of Psyche as the two women show conflicting sides of the female persona. Venus begins by demonstrating a stronger, more determined side of woman as she mercilessly orders her son to strike down the innocent Psyche to save her own vanity. Amor refuses his mother’s request and marries the unwitting girl instead.

So caught up in this love affair is Psyche that she does not question her husband’s bizarre requests, until she is set upon by her vengeful sister’s who wreak havoc on the relationship