The Impure Woman: A Psychodynamic Exploration of Female Subjectivity in Kishwar Naheed’s A Bad Woman’s Story and Hélène Cixous’ The Laugh of the Medusa

Abstract

This research provides a psychodynamic exploration of female subjectivity in Kishwar Naheed’s Buri Aurat ki katha (2009) translated by Durdana Soomro’s A Bad Woman’s Story (2010) and Hélène Cixous’ "The Laugh of the Medusa" (2009) within the framework of Freud's psychodynamic theory. The psychodynamic perspective emphasizes the impact of childhood experiences on adult personality, highlighting unconscious psychological processes like wishes and fears. The study aims to unravel the intricate psychological shifts and female subjectivity depicted in the literary works, examining how the authors employ narrative strategies to challenge traditional gender roles and societal expectations. Drawing on Freud's psychodynamic theory, the research seeks to provide a new perspective on the psychological dimensions of the characters and themes in these literary works, shedding light on the complexities of female identity and empowerment. By analyzing the psychological underpinnings of the characters and their interactions, the article aims to offer insights into how the authors navigate the complexities of female subjectivity and the impact of societal norms on individual psychology. Ultimately, this inquiry contributes to a deeper understanding of the psychodynamic nature of the female characters in A Bad Woman’s Story and The Laugh of the Medusa, offering fresh insights into the psychological complexities of female subjectivity within the context of postmodern literature.