Self-Narrative and Collective Myth: An Analysis of the Narcissus Story
Hubert J.M. Hermans, & Willem van Gilst
Canadian Journal of Behavioural Science, 1991, 23, 423-440
Abstract
This article presents an instrument for the study of self-narratives in close connection with collective stories (myths, novels, movies). The proposed method is a two-level approach. On the manifest level the self-narrative is composed of a phenomenological variety of valuations: Experiences or events seen by a person as particularly relevant when reflecting on his or her own past, present, and future (e.g., a dear memory, a disturbing problem, an unattainable goal). On the latent level a limited number of motives are supposed to underlie the self-narrative: Basic motives influencing the affective organization of a personal valuation system. On the assumption that individual self-narratives and collective stories are different on the manifest level but similar on the latent level, the Narcissus myth is analyzed in connection with the self-narratives of 14 clients. The results show the presence of a common denominator in the myth and in the self-narratives. The Narcissus myth symbolizes not simply self-love but the unfulfilled desire for unity with one's self and with the other, a desire also found in individual self-narratives.
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