L’orfano: metamorfosi letterarie di un archetipo

Abstract

The archetype of the orphan is explored through a series of examples found in Ancient and Italian literature. The literary figures here analysed portray condition or feelings of abandonment and estrangement typical of orphans. However, the author asserts that such condition or feelings can lead to an important inner development where imagination and psyche play important roles. The result is a surge of individual and collective consciousness combined with the creation of timeless literary characters.