Psychological Trauma: An Existential analysis in the Select works of Don DeLillo

Abstract

This study explores and analyses the theme of trauma in existential aspects within the three novels of Don DeLillo namely, Zero K, The Body Artist, and Falling Man. The research aims to explore and unravel the intricate layers of psychological trauma experienced by the characters in the select novels. By employing qualitative research methodology, this research conducts a complete examination of character development, which probes how DeLillo’s protagonists pave their fractured realities in response to extreme existential crises. The analysis is based on existential philosophy and psychology which renders insights into human experience as manifested in the novels. The research seeks to contribute to an in-depth understanding of DeLillo’s works which encapsulates the human predicament marked by human decision amidst uncertainty, mortality and meaning in the contemporary society. The cause and effect of psychological trauma and the existential action by the protagonists will be scrutinized to decipher the human decision taken during the psychological trauma to cope with it.