A Psychological Approach into the Hypermodernity Aspects of the Netflix Series "Dark"

Abstract

<i>Dark</i> is a Netflix series that explores the interesting idea of time travel, which is very famous in popular culture. This paper is trying to interpretate the notion of time travel, as a literary theme, in its psychological aspects, in relation to the <i>Dark</i> Netflix series, using statistical analysis of the duration of every scene in each episode of the first season of <i>Dark</i>. The authors are using statistical analysis to explore (a) the conflicting relations between major characters and (b) their relationship with space and time. Our research estimated the duration of each scene in every episode of the first season in Dark. Each episode “broke down” into scenes, the duration of each scene and the duration of the timeline of each character (in every scene, sequence, episode respectively). Εach character’s relation with specific space (i.e. Winden, police station, school etc.) and time (1953, 1986, 2019 2052) was statistically measured. In addition, we measured the duration of the conflict of each character in every scene in every space and time. The duration of every scene, characters timeline and conflict time was calculated and then clustered into first order factors such as, NATURE, CIVILIZATION, CONFLICT, TIME etc. Other first order factors were clustered, such as the total duration of a character’s appearance in specific space and in certain time Statistical analysis showed that there is no significant difference in any of the 1^st order factors examined. This finding highlights key aspects of <i>hypermodernity</i>, a key term that outlines the current human condition by describing the deeper connection of an individual with space and time. The authors are arguing that time travel theme in <i>Dark</i> is very close to the theoretical construct of hypermodernity because it is expressing the profound ways in which individuals are related, intertwined, and reflecting upon their own experience with space and time. This experience of space and time is a core element in today’s hypermodernity state. In addition, this paper is also trying to articulate a psychoanalytical reading of the <i>Dark</i> series, which further highlights the hypermodernity aspect of this narration. Under this scope, the authors are arguing that “Dark” should be considered as one of the most prominent hypermodern television series.