A Case Study Of Oskar Schell In J. S. Foer's Novel "Extremely Loud And Incredibly Close"

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• J. S. Foer and the theme of 9/11 in literature
• Plot synopsis
• Theory of Oskar's possible mental disorders
  • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Depression
• Oskar's character
• Oskar's mental state
  • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Depression
  • Diagnosis
• Conclusion

Objectives and Key Themes

This bachelor thesis conducts a case study of Oskar Schell, the protagonist in Jonathan Safran Foer's novel, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. The primary objective is to analyze Oskar's personality through a psychological lens, examining his behavior and exploring potential symptoms of mental disorders. The study considers the impact of his father's death during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, alongside his pre-existing personality traits. The thesis employs a two-part structure: a theoretical section laying the groundwork, and a practical section analyzing Oskar's behavior.

• The impact of 9/11 on Oskar's mental state
• Analysis of potential mental disorders in Oskar (PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Depression)
• Oskar's unique personality and behavior patterns
• Application of psychological theories to a fictional character
• Exploration of the relationship between trauma and mental illness

Chapter Summaries

Introduction: This chapter introduces the concept of a case study as an intensive analysis of an individual, focusing on developmental factors and their relation to the environment. It establishes the thesis's aim: to analyze Oskar Schell's character from Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, emphasizing his mental state. The thesis is structured into theoretical and practical parts, with the former covering the author, plot, and relevant mental disorders, while the latter empirically examines Oskar's behavior to suggest a potential diagnosis. The chapter highlights the unique nature of Oskar's personality, potentially influenced by both pre-existing traits and the trauma of his father's death during 9/11.

J. S. Foer and the theme of 9/11 in literature: This chapter delves into Jonathan Safran Foer's literary style and purpose in writing Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. It explores Foer's approach to the 9/11 theme, analyzing his motivations for creating Oskar's specific personality and the role of 9/11 within the novel's narrative. The chapter examines Foer's literary techniques and their contribution to the overall portrayal of trauma and its consequences. It sets the stage for understanding Oskar’s character within the broader context of Foer's literary aims.

Plot synopsis: This chapter provides a brief summary of the plot of Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, encompassing all three storylines—Oskar's, his grandparents', and the overarching narrative. It touches upon the key events and relationships that shape the narrative and the emotional arc experienced by the characters. This section provides essential background information for the subsequent psychological analysis of Oskar's behavior, situating his experiences within the broader context of the story.

Theory of Oskar's possible mental disorders: This chapter lays the theoretical groundwork for the analysis of Oskar's mental state by defining three potential mental disorders: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, and clinical Depression. It presents the diagnostic criteria for each condition, explaining them in accessible language, yet based on credible sources like the DSM-V. This chapter provides the necessary framework for interpreting Oskar's behavior in the subsequent analysis, offering clear definitions and criteria against which to compare his actions and emotions.

Oskar's character: This chapter provides a detailed character analysis of Oskar Schell, focusing on his personality traits, behavioral patterns, and relationships with other characters. It delves into his eccentricities, emotional responses, and the coping mechanisms he employs in response to trauma. It sets the stage for the in-depth psychological analysis of the subsequent chapter, providing a foundation for understanding the manifestations of his potential mental disorders.

Oskar's mental state: This chapter presents an empirical analysis of Oskar's mental state by examining specific instances from the novel that illustrate possible symptoms of PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and clinical depression. It analyzes excerpts of Oskar's narration, focusing on dialogues and behavioral patterns that exhibit these symptoms. This chapter is the core of the practical analysis, directly linking the theoretical concepts of the previous chapters with Oskar's actions and words within the narrative.

Keywords

Case study, Trauma, 9/11, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger's Syndrome, Depression, Fictional Character Analysis, Psychological Analysis, Jonathan Safran Foer, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close.

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close: A Psychological Case Study of Oskar Schell - FAQ

What is the main objective of this thesis?

This bachelor thesis analyzes the protagonist Oskar Schell from Jonathan Safran Foer's novel, "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close," through a psychological lens. The primary goal is to examine Oskar's behavior and explore potential mental disorders, considering the impact of his father's death on 9/11 and his pre-existing personality traits. The thesis uses a two-part structure: a theoretical section and a practical analysis of Oskar's behavior.

What are the key themes explored in the thesis?

The key themes include the impact of 9/11 on Oskar's mental state, analysis of potential mental disorders (PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Depression), Oskar's unique personality and behavior, application of psychological theories to a fictional character, and the exploration of the relationship between trauma and mental illness.

Which mental disorders are considered in relation to Oskar Schell?

The thesis explores the possibility of Oskar having Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (including Asperger's Syndrome), and clinical Depression. The diagnostic criteria for each disorder are defined using credible sources like the DSM-V.

How is the analysis of Oskar's mental state conducted?

The analysis uses a two-part approach. The theoretical part defines the relevant mental disorders and discusses Jonathan Safran Foer's work and the novel's plot. The practical part empirically examines specific instances from the novel, analyzing Oskar's narration, dialogues, and behavioral patterns to identify potential symptoms of the disorders considered.

What is the structure of the thesis?

The thesis is structured into several chapters: an introduction, a chapter on J.S. Foer and the theme of 9/11, a plot synopsis, a chapter on the theory of Oskar's possible mental disorders, a chapter on Oskar's character, a chapter on Oskar's mental state, and a conclusion. Each chapter contributes to building a comprehensive psychological profile of Oskar.

What kind of methodology is used in this thesis?

The thesis employs a case study methodology, conducting an intensive analysis of Oskar Schell's character, focusing on developmental factors and their relation to his environment and experiences.

What are the key words associated with this thesis?

Key words include: Case study, Trauma, 9/11, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger's Syndrome, Depression, Fictional Character Analysis, Psychological Analysis, Jonathan Safran Foer, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close.

What is the purpose of including a plot synopsis?

The plot synopsis provides essential background information for the subsequent psychological analysis. It summarizes the key events and relationships in the novel, situating Oskar's experiences within the broader context of the story.

What is the significance of Jonathan Safran Foer's writing style in this analysis?

The thesis explores Foer's literary style and his approach to the 9/11 theme in "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close." It analyzes Foer's motivations for creating Oskar's specific personality and the role of 9/11 in the novel's narrative, providing context for understanding Oskar's character within Foer's literary aims.