A Study on the Male Central Characters’ Personalities in E. L. James’ the Fifty Shades Trilogy

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to explore the male central characters’ personalities in E.L. James’ The Fifty Shades Trilogy are analyzed through the application of Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory. The analysis shows that the 2 personalities of male central characters are 1. A doer can be classified into three groups: a sadist, a domineer and a competitor. 2. Personalities as a victim fall into three main types: self-denial, inability to express love and fear of marriage. Each of the main characters’ backgrounds are found as the main factor contributing to different personalities. In addition, the analysis reveals the development of the main characters’ personalities. That is, they are able to adapt themselves to changed circumstances, making their personalities appear even more reasonable and realistic.