In recent years, the rich narratives inherent in ancient texts have been scrutinized through various modern psychological frameworks, offering fresh perspectives on characters that have long been relegated to the annals of literary history. One remarkable instance of this trend is manifested in the work of Mary Dhillon, who examines the complex character of Karna from the ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata. In her upcoming article, she applies Erik Erikson’s theories on identity to unpack the layered character of Karna, producing insights that resonate profoundly with contemporary discussions on identity and belonging.
Dhillon’s approach provides an innovative lens through which to assess not only the narrative arc of Karna but also the broader implications of his identity struggles. The Mahabharata is not just a story of a great war; it intricately weaves themes of duty, loyalty, and the quest for selfhood against the backdrop of societal expectations and familial allegiances. Dhillon positions Karna as a quintessential embodiment of Erikson’s psychosocial stages of development, specifically focusing on the conflicts of identity versus role confusion that Erikson theorized as pivotal during adolescence and young adulthood.
Through Dhillon’s lens, Karna’s life story unfolds in a way that mirrors Erikson’s ideas, revealing his struggles with personal identity as he navigates the complexities of being both a warrior and the son of an unwed mother. This duality creates a profound internal conflict—on one hand, he is fiercely loyal to Duryodhana, the leader of the Kauravas, who embraces him despite his lowly origins; on the other, both society and his own mother shun him, labeling him an outsider. Dhillon highlights how this formative struggle for acceptance and recognition illustrates Erikson’s theories, showing that Karna’s external battles on the battlefield are paralleled by internal battles for self-acceptance and identity.
Moreover, Dhillon’s application of Erikson’s identity framework provides a fertile ground for discussing the concept of ‘the other’ in psychological literature and its implications for identity formation. In the world of the Mahabharata, Karna’s status as an outcast plays a critical role in shaping his identity. Rather than succumbing to the tragedy of his circumstances, Karna embraces his role as a warrior, albeit in service to those who may not deserve it. This intricate dance between identity and societal roles, manifesting through Karna’s choices, becomes a compelling case study for both psychologists and literature scholars alike, as it raises essential questions about the nature of loyalty and the construction of self.
Karna’s ultimate fate, full of poignant irony, reminds contemporary readers of the high costs associated with the battle for identity. Despite his prodigious talents and valiant efforts in the war, Karna is ultimately denied recognition and respect due to the very circumstances that defined his life. Dhillon argues that this echoes Erikson’s notion of ego identity and the impact of unresolved conflicts on one’s sense of self. Karna embodies the struggles and aspirations of people caught in the clash between societal expectations and personal desires, holding a mirror to the ongoing dialogues surrounding identity in today’s world.
Another compelling thread in Dhillon’s analysis lies in her exploration of how Karna’s life story challenges traditional narratives surrounding heroism and villainy. While often viewed as an antagonist within the Mahabharata, when seen through an Eriksonian lens, Karna emerges as a tragic hero—one who fights against societal constraints and for what he considers loyalty and truth. Dhillon effectively argues that Karna’s motivations cannot be neatly categorized; instead, they reflect the complexities of human psychology and the increasing importance of moral ambiguity in modern storytelling.
This nuanced interpretation also prompts a reevaluation of the broader themes present in the Mahabharata. The epic depicts not only a monumental war but also the intricate interplay of personal aspirations, ethical dilemmas, and the arduous journey toward understanding one’s identity. Dhillon’s framework invites readers to ponder how these themes resonate in today’s increasingly polarized society, where the search for identity remains fraught with tensions between communal affiliations and personal truths.
As Dhillon’s analysis traverses the rich narrative landscape of the Mahabharata, it brings into sharp relief the timeless questions regarding how identities are formed and transformed in response to familial and social pressures. By embedding these discussions within a psychological context, she broadens the scope of not only how literature can be interpreted but also how it can impact our understanding of human behavior. The dialogues initiated by Erikson’s theories are brought forward into vibrant conflict within Karna’s life, heightening the relevance of his story for modern readers.
In weighing the implications of Karna’s identity struggles, Dhillon provides psychologically grounded insights that carry profound resonance in the contemporary discourse on identity. This emphasis on the applicability of Erikson’s theories to classic literature serves to highlight the enduring legacy of these ancient tales, revealing how they remain pertinent in addressing the complexities of identity formation in the modern world.
Moreover, Dhillon draws unsettling parallels between Karna’s experiences and the modern plight of those who find themselves at the mercy of their societal roles. Just as Karna’s lineage placed him firmly on the margins of his society, today’s individuals too grapple with identities shaped by social stigma, cultural background, and individual circumstance. In this way, Dhillon’s paper acts not only as a literary critique but also as an urgent reminder of the power that narratives hold in shaping our understanding of the fundamental human experience.
Ultimately, Dhillon’s integration of Eriksonian theory into the analysis of Karna’s character can enlighten ongoing conversations around identity in global contexts. The exploration of identity—its complexities, conflicts, and resolutions—does not only resonate within the confines of literature but also extends towards pressing social dialogues that challenge our perceptions of race, class, and belonging. The application of psychological theories to ancient narratives champions the idea that literature is not merely an escape but a profound vessel for examining the human condition.
As we delve into Dhillon’s work in the forthcoming issue of Pastoral Psychology, readers can expect a rich tapestry woven from narrative and theory—a tapestry that showcases the significance of the identity struggles that Karna epitomizes. In an era where discussions of identity are paramount, Dhillon’s analysis promises to provoke thought, challenge assumptions, and inspire readers to reflect on their identities against the backdrop of societal influence and personal aspiration.
In the end, it is through frameworks like those offered by Erikson that we may begin to articulate the complexities of human identity as timeless as the Mahabharata itself. As Dhillon illustrates, understanding these multi-faceted characters not only enhances our appreciation for literature but also enriches our comprehension of ourselves in an ever-evolving world. Ancient stories still hold lessons for us today, inviting exploration and reflection that can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of the narratives that shape our lives.
Subject of Research: The identity struggles of Karna in the Mahabharata through Eriksonian theory.
Article Title: The Brother Who Fought for the Enemy: Viewing the Mahabharata’s Karna Through an Eriksonian Lens on Identity.
Article References:
Dhillon, M. The Brother Who Fought for the Enemy: Viewing the Mahabharata’s Karna Through an Eriksonian Lens on Identity.
Pastoral Psychol 74, 325–336 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11089-025-01215-5
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI:
Keywords: Identity, Mahabharata, Karna, Erikson, Literature, Psychological Frameworks, Heroism, Modern Society, Narrative Analysis.
