PERSONAL FREEDOM VERSUS SOCIETAL CONSTRAINTS: A PSYCHOANALYTIC STUDY OF SHAHRAZ'S A PAIR OF JEANS

Abstract

This research paper, based on a short literary fiction, A Pair of Jeans (1998) by Qaisra Shahraz,analyzes the internal psychological conflict of a young female protagonist Miriam,who desperately tries to maintain a balance between her personal freedom and societal constraints for gaining the approval of her future in-laws. Using Freud's Psychoanalytic theory (1896), this research paper explores how the protagonist fights against the rift between her Id and Superego and employs defense mechanisms of repression and sublimation to get rid of the feelings of guilt,fear,shame,and anxiety caused by the society. This research paper asserts that the young female individuals can revolutionize their lives and destinies if they show courage, strength, and resilience,focusing on their personal preferences amidst societal pressures.