A Concept of Conscious Suffering: Existentialist Representation in Dazai’s No Longer Human
Kylie A. Haynes
Faculty Mentor: Dr.Todd Hagstette Dr. Matthew Miller
University of South Carolina Aiken
Abstract
The theme of “self ” is a universal conundrum defined by comprising the key elements of an individual’s beliefs, values, and moral compass. Influencing an individual’s perception of themselves and society, the development of one’s“self” is crucial in the development of purpose in society and their direction of life. Without a concrete concept of identity, the existential search for purpose becomes strenuous and confused. Osamu Dazai’s No Longer Human depicts the search for purpose and the consequences of failing to determine a solid sense of identity through the story of Oba Yozo, an addict suffering from depression and exhaustively longing for acceptance amidst a society he detests. Capitalizing on themes of misconstrued identity and societal alienation, Dazai embraces existentialist philosophy by offering an example of contemplative tensions endured when individuals are forced to confront a meaningless existence without the reassurance of a defined sense of purpose. After completing a comparative analysis, this contemplative tension is found to be further reflected upon in Albert Camus’ essay “The Myth of Sisyphus,” in which he discusses the more specific philosophy of Absurdism through a reflection of existentialist ideals in the tale of the Greek hero, Sisyphus.In his observations, Camus notes the height of Sisyphus’ suffering is experienced when he dwells upon the potential abandonment of existentialist ideals in favor of embracing a meaningless existence. The concept of conscious suffering can be identified in this tension, reflecting the heights of suffering endured by both Sisyphus and Dazai’s protagonist.
❐ PDFKeywords: Existentialism, AlbertCamus, Osamu Dazai, Identity, Japanese Literature
Satoshi Kon’s Perfect Blue: The Horror of Identity
Ian Waltermire
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michele Malach
Fort Lewis College
Abstract
Satoshi Kon’s 1997 directorial debut, Perfect Blue, is recognized for its uniqueness within the canons of both horror cinema and animated cinema. The film features extensive use of color, a highly distinctive and cerebral editing style, a deeply complex narrative, and a rich wealth of themes. Such factors have led to the film garnering immense critical acclaim, both domestically and internationally. This piece examines the film’s themes of celebrity worship culture, parasociality, the double standards that women are held to in terms of how they are expected to present themselves, identity and self-perception, mental illness, and fears of the potential impacts that the then-burgeoning internet would have on society. These themes are analyzed through a variety of critical lenses, including historical and feminist lenses and examinations of how color theory is applied within the film.
❐ PDFKeywords: Film analysis, Perfect Blue, Satoshi Kon, Lost Decade, Identity
The Effect of Kangaroo Care on Maternal Postpartum Depression Symptoms in Mothers of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Patients
Kate Jessee
Faculty Mentor: Dr.Nancy Haugen
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise
Abstract
Postpartum depression, or PPD, is a significant mental health concern for many mothers following birth, especially those who have infants in the neonatal intensive care unit, or NICU. This literature review aims to determine the impact of kangaroo care, or KMC, onreducing symptoms of PPD in mothers of NICU patients, specifically preterm and low-birth-weight infants. Kangaroo care has been previously studied for its effect on the infant; however, the effect of KMC on maternal PPD symptoms has not been as rigorously studied. This researcher searched several databases and focused on five articles, which were selected based on the following inclusion criteria: evidence-based, peer-reviewed, in English, and published within the past five years. These studies revealed kangaroo care reduces moderate-to-severe symptoms of postpartum depression in mothers of preterm and low-birth-weight infants. The reviewed studies found mothers who participated in kangaroo care reported a lower postpartum depression score than those who did not. Furthermore, one of the studies found the longer the duration of kangaroo care, the greater the impact on maternal stress and depression.Overall, the intervention of kangaroo care was effective in reducing symptomsof PPD in mothers of preterm and low-birth-weight infants. KMC is a holistic intervention that reduces PPD symptoms and improves neonatal outcomes at little to no cost.
❐ PDFKeywords: Postpartum Depression,Kangaroo Maternal Care, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Nursing
An Osteobiography and Reconstruction of the Life: Individual G-821
Sonya Gentile
Faculty Mentor: Marnie Thomson
Fort Lewis College
Abstract
This project developed an osteobiography to reconstruct what life might have looked like for an individual who lived in the Szekler region of medieval and early modern Hungary. Individual G821 was recovered from the Papdomb site located in the historic village of Patakfalva. Bioarchaeological and historical data were synthesized to better understand the life of G-82l and broader aspects of Szekler life. Standard methods were used to estimate different aspects of G821’s biological sex, age-at-death, and stature. In addition, the remains were radiocarbon dated at the University of Arizona. Historical sources gave insights into the social context of the region. Analyses of historical sources revealed information about life stages, gender, occupation, subsistence practices, and social structure in the Szekler region of medieval Hungary. These historical sources enabled further understanding of the context of G 821’s life. This study provides a glimpse of how the osteobiographical approach is useful in bioarchaeology.
❐ PDFKeywords: Bioarchaeology, Medieval Era, Skeletal Analysis, Historic, Social Context
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