Self-actualization in William Somerset Maugham's "The Razor's Edge" and "Of Human Bondage"

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• Abstract
• Introduction
• Chapter One: The Intersection of the Theory of the Third Force Psychology and Literature
• Chapter Two: Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and its Application to Maugham's The Razor's Edge and Of Human Bondage
• Chapter Three: The Characteristics of Self-actualized People in Maugham's Two Novels: The Razor's Edge and Of Human Bondage
• Conclusion

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This thesis examines the application of the theory of the third force psychology, specifically Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, to the works of W. Somerset Maugham, focusing on his novels The Razor's Edge and Of Human Bondage.

• Exploring the intersection of psychology and literature
• Analyzing Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and its relevance to the characters in Maugham's novels
• Identifying the characteristics of self-actualized individuals in Maugham's works
• Investigating the psychological and philosophical themes present in The Razor's Edge and Of Human Bondage
• Examining the relationship between human needs, personal growth, and self-realization.

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

Chapter One introduces the concept of the Third Force Psychology and its key theorists, particularly focusing on Abraham Maslow. It establishes the theoretical framework for examining the psychological aspects of literature, particularly Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. Chapter Two explores the application of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs to Maugham's The Razor's Edge and Of Human Bondage. It analyzes the characters' journeys through different stages of needs and their striving for self-actualization. Chapter Three delves deeper into the characteristics of self-actualized individuals as portrayed in Maugham's novels, examining the qualities and behaviors exhibited by characters who have reached the pinnacle of human potential. The analysis of these characters' experiences provides insight into the complex interplay of needs, motivation, and personal growth.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

The thesis focuses on key concepts such as Third Force Psychology, Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, self-actualization, human motivation, psychological themes in literature, character analysis, and W. Somerset Maugham.