Date of Award
1-1-1995
Document Type
Thesis
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Faculty
Faculty of Arts
First Supervisor
Professor Andrew Taylor
Abstract
This thesis offers a new interpretation of Patrick White's novels, using Object Relations psychology. Object Relations psychology differs from Freudian psychology in that it shifts the focus of attention from notions of the Oedipal conflict and repression to issues of nurturing and relationships. This study charts the development of the Whitean protagonist across a selection of novels. The focus of my thesis is White's developing protagonist, and no attempt is made to offer a psychological profile of Patrick White himself. The thesis first surveys a representative sampling of existing critical material. It then defines the theoretical framework of the study and, finally, it applies this framework to the novels.
Recommended Citation
Lloyd da Silva, M. C. (1995). Self and (m)other in Patrick White's fiction : an object relations approach. Edith Cowan University. Retrieved from https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1178