The Narrative of Trauma in Art spiegelman’s Maus

Abstract

This article explores how Art Spiegelman’s Maus (1986-1991) challenges the humanist concept of the unified self, proposing instead that the post-war self is fragmented and split. This fragmentation is particularly examined through the lens of Holocaust survivors in Maus, showcasing how extreme experiences during and after the Second World War cause the self to fracture and even disintegrate. The article argues that storytelling and narration serve as a crucial tool for the trauma survivors to navigate and reconcile the fractured aspects of their self. Through storytelling, the protagonist finds a means of survival, by finding a language to articulate his otherwise inexpressible and ineffable experiences and memories. It highlights the fragmentation of the human psyche as a direct consequence of Holocaust trauma and similar traumatic experiences, examining how narrative acts as a medium for the protagonist to deal with his traumas. The novel offers insights into the complexities of the new post-war self, the enduring scars of trauma and the potential of narrative in coping with trauma, providing a deeper understanding of the fragmented self in the context of Holocaust trauma.