What was wrong with Norman Bates? This question has intrigued audiences since the release of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film “Psycho” in 1960. Norman Bates, portrayed by Anthony Perkins, is a complex character whose mental instability and twisted worldview make him one of the most memorable figures in cinema history. This article delves into the psychological and societal factors that contributed to Norman’s downfall, shedding light on the dark side of human nature and the consequences of repressed desires.
Norman Bates is a character who embodies the struggle between the id, ego, and superego, as outlined by Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory. The id represents the primitive, instinctual part of the human psyche, driven by the desire for pleasure and the avoidance of pain. The ego serves as the mediator between the id and the external world, balancing the desires of the id with the demands of reality. The superego represents the internalized moral standards and societal norms.
In Norman’s case, his id is personified by his mother, who is both a physical and psychological presence in his life. Norman’s mother is a manifestation of his repressed desires and instincts, embodying the forbidden love he feels for her. This love is further complicated by the fact that Norman is also the caretaker of his mother, who is portrayed as a fragile, dependent woman. This symbiotic relationship between Norman and his mother creates a psychological barrier that prevents him from developing a healthy sense of self.
The superego in Norman’s life is represented by his father, who is a strict, moralistic figure. Norman’s father is the embodiment of societal norms and expectations, and he constantly criticizes and belittles his son. This creates a sense of guilt and inadequacy in Norman, as he feels he can never live up to his father’s expectations. This internalized pressure from the superego leads to a constant battle between Norman’s desire for pleasure and his need to conform to societal norms.
As Norman’s mental state deteriorates, his ego becomes increasingly fragile. Unable to reconcile the conflicting demands of his id and superego, Norman’s ego breaks down, causing him to lose touch with reality. This breakdown is evident in his delusional belief that he is his mother, and his subsequent descent into madness.
The societal factors that contribute to Norman’s downfall are also significant. The 1950s and 1960s were a time of significant social change, with the rise of the Cold War and the Civil Rights Movement. These events create a backdrop of uncertainty and fear, which may have contributed to the societal pressure Norman feels to conform to traditional gender roles and expectations. Additionally, the film’s setting in a small, insular town exacerbates the feeling of entrapment and isolation that Norman experiences.
In conclusion, what was wrong with Norman Bates can be attributed to a combination of psychological and societal factors. His struggle with the id, ego, and superego, as well as the societal pressures of his time, lead to his eventual breakdown and descent into madness. “Psycho” remains a powerful exploration of the dark side of human nature, and Norman Bates remains a haunting reminder of the consequences of repressed desires and the thin line between sanity and madness.
