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Abstract
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This study explores the Jungian concept of the "shadow" in literature, focusing on Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray and Robert Louis Stevenson's Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Drawing on Carl Jung's theory, the shadow represents the unconscious, repressed aspects of the self that influence behavior and morality. Through a Jungian lens, the analysis reveals how both Dorian Gray and Dr. Jekyll embody the duality of human nature, struggling with their hidden desires and darker impulses, which ultimately lead to their downfall. Wilde’s novel uses Dorian’s portrait as a symbol of moral decay, illustrating the dangers of denying one’s shadow, while Stevenson’s narrative dramatizes the conflict between the conscious ego and repressed shadow through Jekyll’s transformation into Hyde. The study highlights the psychological and moral complexities these characters face, emphasizing the necessity of acknowledging and integrating the shadow for authentic selfhood and psychological well-being. By examining these works, the research contributes to a deeper understanding of identity, morality, and the human psyche, underscoring literature’s role in fostering empathy and self-reflection. This Jungian approach not only enriches literary interpretation but also resonates with contemporary discussions on mental health and the integration of the unconscious self.
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