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The Characters Of Freudian Theories In Melancholia By Lars Von Trier

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The film Melancholia by Lars von Trier gradually develops into the character's depression through their actions and choices that can relate directly to Lars von Trier's own depression and unfortunate childhood circumstances. The main protagonist of the movie, Justine, is depressed and this affects everyone around her. Lars von Trier, the writer and director, is depressed was depressed when creating this film and this depression is reflected in Melancholia. Freudian theories relate to Melancholia through Justine's life as well as her love life. She is constantly unsatisfied and immediately has an extramarital sexual encounter when she is vulnerable. Freudian theories are demonstrated through the depression from the characters in the movie …show more content…

Although Lars was diagnosed with depression in 2007, he had a difficult childhood. He did not know who his biological father was until his mother told him on her death bed. Freud believed that “our unconscious was influenced by childhood events”. Lars von Trier stated during an interview that “I come from a family of communist nudists. I was allowed to do or not to do what I like. My parents were not interested in whether I went to school or get drunk on white wine. After a childhood like that, you search for restrictions in your own life.”

Lars' childhood relates greatly to the character of Justine. Justine's parents did not seem to care for her. During Justine's wedding, her parent's self-absorption is reflected in their speeches about their marriage problems. As well, her parents did not care or take time for her when Justine specifically asked a few times to talk privately to her father and he could not find the time. In the bedroom, Justine was upset and asked her mother for help but her mother was no help at all. Her mom did not seem to care and her father left the wedding leaving only a note saying that he was leaving with another woman and to “forgive an old fool”. Lars' and Justine's parents have similar responses to their children of not caring. Claire was distraught and acted out of character, she

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