Examining the Impact of the Advancements in Nineteenth Century Neuroscience on Drama: An Analysis of Jean-Martin Charcot’s Stages of Female Hysteria in August Strindberg’s Miss Julie

Abstract

This study examines the depiction of female hysteria in August Strindberg's "Miss Julie" by analyzing its historical development, Julie's characterization, and the influence of neuroscience on the portrayal of mental illness in literature and drama. Utilizing a descriptive method, it investigates Julie's character and the impact of Charcot's theory on the stages of grand hysteria on her portrayal. The analysis is based on a close reading of the play, relevant literature on Charcot's research, and secondary sources to understand the relationship between neuroscience and the arts in the 19th century. A qualitative research design is employed to explore Charcot's research's impact on literature and drama. The study reveals that Strindberg's "Miss Julie" shows a clear influence of Charcot's stages of grand hysteria, with Julie being a good example of a hysterical woman. The complex portrayal of mental illness in the play highlights the impact of social and cultural factors on its depiction. The findings suggest that scientific discoveries, like Charcot's work on female hysteria, significantly impacted mental illness portrayals in books and plays, revealing the complex relationship between scientific progress and cultural perceptions of mental health. The study recommends further exploration of other pre-Freudian theories to gain a more comprehensive understanding of Strindberg's works and their portrayal of mental illness. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical and cultural context of the portrayal of mental illness in literature and drama.