The concept of symbolic transgression can be defined as crossing boundaries between social norms and expectations, often related to issues surrounding gender roles, race, class, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, or body type. It may involve violating taboos or challenging societal conventions regarding what is considered appropriate behavior, speech, or dress. Symbolic transgression has been studied extensively across various disciplines, such as anthropology, cultural studies, psychology, literature, history, philosophy, and art history.
Little attention has been given to its connection with fascination and moral anxiety. This paper seeks to explore this relationship through an analysis of literary texts that depict individuals engaging in symbolic transgressive acts.
The term "fascination" refers to a strong interest or attraction towards something or someone, which can lead to intense focus and absorption. It is characterized by a sense of wonder, curiosity, and excitement. Fascination can occur in response to a wide range of objects and experiences, including art, music, nature, science, technology, sports, fashion, food, travel, etc. Moral anxiety, on the other hand, relates to feelings of guilt, shame, regret, or fear associated with breaking rules or norms. It involves a conflict between personal desires and social expectations, leading to inner turmoil and self-criticism. In symbolic transgression contexts, both these emotions are present simultaneously, but their interplay is not always straightforward.
It is important to note that symbolic transgression often leads to fascination due to its ability to break normative patterns and reveal new possibilities.
In Kate Chopin's short story "The Storm," Calixta's affair with Alcee Laballiere while her husband is away during a storm reflects society's strict codes regarding fidelity and sexuality. The intensity of the storm itself mirrors the intensity of their passion, creating a heightened sensual experience that captivates readers. Similarly, Toni Morrison's novel "Beloved" explores the complexity of motherhood, race, and sexuality through Sethe's decision to kill her child rather than let him be returned to slavery. This act challenges societal views on parenting and raises moral questions about what constitutes good versus evil.
These acts also evoke fascination as they push boundaries and provide new perspectives on existing ideologies.
Symbolic transgression can create moral anxiety due to the conflicting emotions it generates.
In Jeanette Winterson's memoir "Why Be Happy When You Could Be Normal?", the author describes growing up as an adopted daughter in a religious household and discovering her lesbian identity later in life. Her experiences challenge traditional gender roles and sexual mores, leading to feelings of guilt and self-doubt. She struggles with reconciling her personal desires with societal expectations, causing inner turmoil that affects all aspects of her existence. In addition, symbolic transgressions may lead to external criticism or punishment, further amplifying anxiety.
In Eve Ensler's play "The Vagina Monologues," several women share their stories of abuse, assault, and oppression, raising awareness about issues such as domestic violence and female genital mutilation. While this symbolic transgression empowers many individuals, others condemn it as immoral or offensive.
This paper has examined how fascination and moral anxiety emerge from symbolic transgression. It highlighted how both emotions are interconnected and can shape one another, creating complex dynamics within literary texts. The analysis shows that while symbolic transgression often leads to fascination, it can also generate moral anxiety through its ability to challenge normative patterns and provoke internal conflict. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for comprehending the human experience and exploring new ways of thinking and being.
What insights emerge from examining the co-occurrence of fascination and moral anxiety in symbolic transgression?
Fascination and moral anxiety are complex phenomena that can arise when individuals engage in symbolic transgression. Examining these two concepts together provides valuable insight into human behavior and social norms. Fascination can be defined as an intense attraction towards something forbidden or taboo, while moral anxiety refers to feelings of guilt or shame associated with breaking cultural or religious laws.