Emotional Transformation through Conflict in The Snows of Kilimanjaro: A Psychoanalytic Perspective

Abstract

This study examines the impact of conflict on the psychological condition of the main character, Harry, in The Snows of Kilimanjaro (1936). The story presents Harry, a writer who is facing death due to gangrene, as he reflects on his past life, including missed opportunities and unfulfilled ambitions. This study applies a psychoanalytic approach based on Sigmund Freud, focusing on internal conflict (regret and fear of death) and external conflict (physical deterioration and relationship tension). Using a qualitative method through close textual analysis, this study analyzes inner monologues and flashbacks to explore Harry’s psychological condition. The findings reveal that Harry’s emotional transformation is shaped by the interaction between internal and external conflicts, with internal conflict as the dominant factor. His regret and fear of death create psychological pressure that is expressed through defense mechanisms such as denial, repression, and projection. These mechanisms function to reduce anxiety but also prevent him from fully confronting reality. As a result, Harry’s emotional state shifts from avoidance and arrogance toward reflection and partial acceptance before his death. In this study emotional transformation is primarily driven by internal psychological struggle, while external conflict intensifies the character’s condition and supports the transformation process.