Don Pasquale, Fidelio, and psychiatry

Journal/Book: American Journal of Psychoanalysis. 1992; 52: 161-173.

Abstract: Discusses Donizetti's Don Pasquale and Beethoven's Fidelio to show how 2 different operas can illustrate the human quest for authenticity. Through their music and dramatic presentation, these 2 operas are able to convey experiential insights into profound philosophic and psychological truths. They can be especially helpful in psychotherapy, in providing access to potentials that ordinarily are set off, in enhancing the awareness of inauthentic attitudes, in facilitating the acceptance of seemingly paradoxical aspects of human existence, and in providing a sense for life's meaningfulness.

Note: psychoanalytic interpretation of operas "Don Pasquale" & "Fidelio"

Keyword(s): Psychoanalytic interpretation; music

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