Psychoanalytic Criticism Of The Hunger Games

Michael F. Seño 11-Joseph
1-14-2017 21st Century Literature in the Philippines
The Hunger Games
The book “Hunger Games” is a novel written by Suzanne Collins in 2008. It is categorized as a dystopian novel. The novel was included in the New York Times’ best sellers. This novel has a lot of events and points where psychoanalytic criticism can be used.
1. The Conscious, The Sub – Conscious, and the Unconscious,
1.1 The Conscious
Conscious is also called “The Working Memory” and the most easily accessed out of the three. The novel was written on Katniss Everdeen’s perspective which initially the conscious part of her mind. Katniss is always aware of her actions and knows what she is doing. We can see that in the first

1.3 The Unconscious
Before the games, Madge gave the pin to Katniss. This is for her to remember her friends, family, and her district. But Katniss is unconscious that the mockingjay pin will save her life. This pin was associated with Rue. The pin also symbolizes the revolution without Katniss even knowing about it.
“My next guest is also unexpected. Madge walks straight to me. She is not weepy or evasive, instead there’s an urgency about her tone that surprises me. “They let you wear one thing from your district in the arena. One thing to remind you of home. Will you wear this?” She holds out the circular gold pin that was on her dress earlier. I hadn’t paid much attention to it before, but now I see it’s a small bird in flight.” (Ch.3 Page 39)
2. The Id, Ego, and Superego
The Id, Ego, and Superego can also be observed in the novel. These three are involved with the conscience and the will to live.
2.1 The

I know that from my days in the woods. But I will need water. That was Haymitch’s second instruction, and since I sort of botched the first, I keep a sharp eye out for any sign of it. No luck.”(Ch.11 Page. 150)

2.2 The Ego
The Ego talks about the satisfaction of the person involved. When Katniss is victorious and she survived, she is satisfied. She does whatever she can to survive.

“The frantic voice of Claudius Templesmith shouts above them. ‘Stop! Stop! Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to present the victors of the Seventy-fourth Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark! I give you — the tributes of District Twelve!’ ” (Ch.25 P.339)

2.3 The Super Ego
The Super Ego talks about the goodwill and values of a person. The Super Ego is also responsible of the morals of a person. In the book, Katniss teamed up with Rue. Rue is a 12-year old girl tribute from District 11. She is the youngest tribute on the 74th Hunger Games. Both Rue and Katniss followed their super ego as shown in the novel. Rue warned Katniss about the nest of Tracker Jackers near her. Rue also recognized the Mockingjay pin Katniss was wearing. Sadly, Rue died when Marvel killed her. Katniss showed empathy and avenges Rue. During Katniss’ last moments with Rue, Katniss covered Rue with flowers and sang her a song until she died. This is superego ruling over Katniss’