The real

Definition

In the context of Freudian and Lacanian theory, 'the real' refers to a state of existence or a dimension of experience that is beyond language and representation. It is something that cannot be fully articulated or understood, representing the unsymbolizable aspects of life, including trauma and the unconscious. This concept plays a crucial role in film as it often depicts characters' confrontations with the impossible, creating a tension between what can be represented and what lies beyond representation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'The real' is distinct from 'the imaginary' and 'the symbolic,' highlighting its unique position as something that eludes complete understanding or representation.
2. In film, 'the real' often manifests through moments of rupture or disruption, where characters face experiences that challenge their understanding of reality.
3. Lacan emphasized that 'the real' is tied to trauma; it can emerge in narrative forms when characters confront events or emotions that defy their constructed identities.
4. The concept is vital in psychoanalytic film theory as it helps explain how audiences engage with cinematic representations of trauma and the unconscious.
5. Direct representations of 'the real' in film are challenging, as filmmakers often depict it through symbolism or indirect allusions rather than straightforward portrayals.

Review Questions

• How does 'the real' differ from the concepts of 'the imaginary' and 'the symbolic' in Freudian and Lacanian theory?
  • 'The real' represents aspects of existence that cannot be fully captured by language or imagery, standing apart from 'the imaginary,' which involves fantasies and visual constructs, and 'the symbolic,' which encompasses language and social order. While 'the imaginary' shapes individual identity through images and idealized relationships, and 'the symbolic' structures society through norms and laws, 'the real' confronts individuals with experiences that exceed these frameworks, provoking anxiety or disorientation.
• In what ways do films illustrate the concept of 'the real' through their narratives and character experiences?
  • Films illustrate 'the real' by presenting moments where characters encounter situations that disrupt their perceived realities. For instance, scenes depicting trauma or existential crises can serve as cinematic expressions of 'the real,' showcasing how characters grapple with experiences that defy understanding. These narrative techniques allow filmmakers to explore deeper psychological themes while engaging audiences in confronting the limits of representation.
• Evaluate the impact of depicting 'the real' in film on audience perception and engagement with trauma.
  • Depicting 'the real' in film profoundly affects how audiences perceive trauma by challenging their expectations of narrative coherence and representation. When films confront viewers with elements that evoke 'the real,' they create an emotional and psychological resonance that can lead to heightened awareness of underlying human experiences. This engagement encourages audiences to reflect on their own relationships with trauma, identity, and understanding, often leaving them with a sense of discomfort or unresolved tension that underscores the complexity of the human condition.

Related terms

the imaginary: A concept referring to the realm of images, illusions, and fantasies, where individuals construct their identities and relationships based on visual representations.

the symbolic: The domain of language, social structures, and laws that govern interactions, where meaning is created through symbols and signifiers.

jouissance: A complex term often translated as 'enjoyment' or 'pleasure,' which refers to an intense, sometimes painful experience that goes beyond mere pleasure, often linked to the real.