Psychology and Art Conversations
"Obsession"
Guest: Melikşah Altuntaş
Moderators: Alper Hasanoğlu, Cengiz Arca
The concept of obsession has historically carried different meanings and explanations at various times. However, in modern psychiatry, obsession is recognized as a mental disorder characterized by recurring obsessions and compulsions. In various art forms, obsession themes have often been used to visually and dramatically depict obsessive characters and thoughts.
In this discussion, we will explore the relationship between different art disciplines and the theme of obsession.
Cinema: Cinema is a powerful medium for addressing obsession themes and visually expressing obsessive characters. Obsession is characterized by obsessive thoughts, repetitive rituals, or compulsive impulses. Some films delve deep into obsession themes and the experiences of obsessive characters. For example, films like "Whiplash" (2014) and "Birdman" (2014) are examples that explore obsession themes and the internal conflicts experienced by obsessive characters.
Literature: Obsession is a frequently explored theme in literature as well. Obsessive characters are defined by their obsessive thoughts, repetitive actions, and compulsive attitudes. In literary works, obsession themes often address the internal conflicts of characters, the limitations imposed by their obsessions, and the consequences. For instance, works like Edgar Allan Poe's "The Tell-Tale Heart" and Patricia Highsmith's "The Talented Mr. Ripley" are well-known examples that tackle obsession themes.
Theater: Theater is an effective medium for expressing obsession themes through live performances and offering the audience a profound emotional experience. Plays that bring the inner world and experiences of obsessive characters to the stage allow the audience to establish an emotional connection and observe the effects of obsession. Obsession themes are often combined with themes of obsessive relationships, compulsive thoughts, or fixated goals. Plays like Henrik Ibsen's "Hedda Gabler," Tennessee Williams's "A Streetcar Named Desire," and Patrick Marber's "Closer" are examples of well-known works that address obsession themes.
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