THE INTERSECTION OF FREUD’S PERSONALITY CONCEPT AND CHI IN IGBO TRAGEDY: A STUDY OF NWABUEZE’S WHEN THE ARROW REBOUNDS AND IROBI’S THE OTHER SIDE OF THE MASK

This study is an exploration of the convergence of the Igbo concept of tragedy and Freud’s tripartite personality theory, as reflected in Emeka Nwabueze’s When the Arrow Rebounds and Esiaba Irobi’s The Other Side of the Mask. Rooted in the fields of literature and psychology, the research seeks to unravel how cultural narratives and psychological frameworks intersect to shape the portrayal of human nature, internal conflicts and tragic outcomes in society and in literature. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach that involves character analysis, cultural contextualization, and psychological exploration. A close examination of the actions and experiences of the major characters of the texts studied using Freud’s personality theory and the Igbo concept of chi reveals a nexus between the Igbo concept of tragedy and Freud’s tripartite personality theory as well as intriguing connections in the analysis of human action and literary exploration. Both the Igbo concept of tragedy and Freud’s personality theory demonstrate that certain themes in literature are universal. Whether it is in Igbo culture or Western psychology, the clash between individual desires and societal norms is a recurrent theme that transcends cultural boundaries. These two perspectives projected in the texts through the lives of the characters of Ezeulu and Jamike, shed light on the complexity of human nature. The Igbo concept of tragedy shows how individuals’ actions can have far-reaching consequences within their community, while Freud’s theory delves into the internal conflicts within individuals. Together, they emphasize the intricate interplay between personal desires, societal expectations and inner psychological struggles.