Clegg's Split Of Self In The Collector

The thesis aims to interpret Clegg's split of self in the famous English novelist John Fowles's The Collector in light of R. D. Laing's existential psychology. Laing redefines split of self as a process for individuals whose experience is split in two ways: a rent in his relation with his world, and a disruption of his relation with himself. Via the close reading of The Collector, we are able to put forward a thorough and convincing interpretation of Clegg's split of self. We point out that Clegg's split of self is a portent of identity crisis. His self is devoid of inner consistency, substantiality and authenticity. For one thing, he fails to establish his integral selfhood in the absence of the satisfactory interpersonal relationship, and for another he has no authentic self-awareness to such an extent that he indulges in a phantasy world; as a consequence, he becomes psychotic progressively.This thesis is composed of an introduction, three chapters, and a conclusion. The introduction presents the literature review about The Collector. Coming next is the motivation and significance of the thesis, and the critical approach to the thesis is also included. Chapter 1 explores the causes of Clegg's split of self, by which readers can find that Clegg's absence of parental love and class conflicts wield negative influence over his personal growth. He experiences frustrations and has a sense of insecurity. Chapter 2 focuses on Clegg's symptoms from three aspects, reaching the conclusion that Clegg, the ontologically insecure individual is so overwhelmed with anxiety that he takes ineffective strategies and produces perversions. His symptoms reflect a rent in his relation with his world. Chapter 3 delves deeper into the process of Clegg's split of self, namely, a disruption of his relation within himself. It intends to show that Clegg who suffers ontological anxiety experiences a split between mind and body, which exhibits two inconsistent selves. He develops the inauthentic relationship with Miranda by adopting his false self that shows conformity but represses his true possibilities. In addition, his self for its insecurity and impotence retreats to phantasy to be identified with the sadistic image in phantasy. Clegg shows sadism and loses his real self in phantasy. The more this fantastic omnipotence and freedom are indulged, the more helpless, impotent and insecure his self becomes in reality. Thus, Clegg develops split personality. In the last part, the author arrives at the conclusion on the enigmas surrounding the novel and the solutions.Combining Laing's psychological theory with Fowles crime novel, the thesis digs out Clegg's spilt of self by exploring his eccentric behavior and psychology, which results not only in a clear and full understanding of Clegg, but also in a deep and better appreciation of Fowles' demonstrations on individual identity and psychological reality.