VERBAL PORTRAYAL OF THE SCORNED WOMAN ARCHETYPE (IN MAINSTREAM CINEMA)

Abstract

The paper focuses on the narrative analysis of the verbal portrayal of eleven female cinematic characters representing the Scorned Woman archetype. The hypothesis of the research is that the characters’ narratives are defined by their archetype. The archetype is a repetitive image of the collective unconscious, as proposed by C. Jung. The present study revises post-Jungian archetype typologies, focusing on the classification by V. Schmidt. Schmidt’s typology is compatible with A. Maslow’s hierarchy of human needs. The Scorned Woman is a villainous antipode of the Matriarch archetype as both are ruled by the same basic needs for love and esteem. Thus, the characters need to form and maintain an alliance with the partner of their choice. Usually, the idea takes the form of matrimony and family; however, the energy might be redirected into creating and ruling some entity (serving as a surrogate family). The need defines her narratives on marriage, family, common future, love, support, home, order, and faithfulness. Unlike the Matriarch’s needs, the Scorned Woman’s aspirations are thwarted, and the characters of the latter archetype feel betrayed, rejected, left, discarded, abandoned, unwanted, and hurt. It defines the Scorned Woman’s narratives on sorrow, loneliness, unrequited love, indifference, contempt, betrayal, retaliation, punishment, revenge, and gloat. To balance the negative feelings, she needs to exercise some kind of control, simulating the semblance of order and structure in her life. She might go to extremities, turning into a tyrant and dictator. She directs her vengeance against different characters, including the man who wronged her. Usually, her actions seem justified as she is represented as a victim of male betrayal, and thus deserves to have her retaliation. Thus, the Scorned Woman is an antagonist (predominantly), or a villain. Possible arc developments for the Scorned woman include 1) forgiveness and matrimony; 2) acceptance and moving on with her life; 3) justified revenge and moving on; 4) unjustified revenge and consequent confrontation; 5) unjustified revenge and death/incapacitation. The outcome depends on the genre, rating, and target group of the film, the character’s role (antagonist or villain), and arc development (negative valence, contamination, or redemption).