A Psychoanalysis of Ineptitude

Abstract

A recurring figure in Italian novels of the early 20th Century is the inept protagonist.  Ineptitude as a fundamental literary theme has two champions: Italo Svevo and Alberto Moravia.  It is no coincidence that the characters Zeno ofLa coscienza di Zeno and Michele of Gli indifferenti appeared promptly after the introduction of Sigmund Freud’s theories of psychoanalysis in Italy.  Both authors have confessed to viewing Freud as a prophet and without a doubt he provided them with an ample catalogue of actions and motives for illuminating the obstacles and neuroses that configure their two helpless characters.

In my paper I will analyze the theme of ineptitude in these two authors, using the filter of Freud’s psychoanalytic theories.  In the case of Zeno, Svevo provides a concrete and unmistakable example where the psychoanalytic techniques are the narrative vehicle for defining the depth of the character’s personality and ineptitude.  In a more subtle way, although just as effective, Moravia marries the unshakable indifference of Michele—a product of the social climate in fascist Italy—with an evident Oedipus complex, the theory recognized as the fundamental basis of Freud’s work.  In applying the lens of psychoanalysis to both characters we can verify how the theme of ineptitude presents itself in different ways.  For example, in a climactic scene of Gli indifferenti Michele comes full circle when he reveals his unique and supreme depth of ineptitude.