The Narcissistic Dilemma: Exploring NPD Traits in Hamlet from a Beauvoirian Perspective

This research paper explores the intersection of existential philosophy and psychological disorders in William Shakespeare’s Hamlet,with a focus on Narcissistic Personality Disorder(NPD)as viewed through the existentialist lens of Simone de Beauvoir.Drawing upon Beauvoir’s existentialist framework,the study delves into the complexities of identity,agency,and societal expectations as portrayed in the characters of Gertrude and Ophelia.Through an interdisciplinary approach,the paper examines how existential crises intertwine with narcissistic behaviors,shedding light on the psychological intricacies of Shakespeare’s iconic figures.By synthesizing literary analysis with psychological insights,the study offers valuable contributions to our understanding of human psychology,societal dynamics,and the timeless themes of existential authenticity portrayed in literature.

The Dark Reflection of Sadism within the Brilliance of the Narcissistic Persona

This double blind randomized clinical trial with 84 participants, revealed that mental patients diagnosed with narcissism, and narcissistic celebrities mirror each other’s paranoid, obsessive and histrionic symptomatology, grandiosity, manipulative charm, and inner emptiness. Elite narcissists manifested insidious sadism in the absence of depressive affect, while the narcissistic patients were differentiated by their depressive and masochistic symptomatology. Elite narcissists demonstrated advanced empathic skills, contradicting past literature. However, their empathic advantage appeared void of compassion, merely employed as a self-serving tactic to exploit, intimidate and subordinate. Both experimental narcissistic groups evidenced more prevalent psychopathology, yet, higher achievement, efficacy and ambition than their reciprocal control groups, confirming the narcissists’ finesse in concealing psychopathology under the brilliance of their pseudosuperiority. The main danger is the affinity between masochism and sadism, bonding low and high functioning narcissistic counterparts to endlessly feed from each-others’ pathology, forming dysfunctional interpersonal relationships, cults or disintegrating societies. This sadomasochistic dependency also reflects several countries’ authoritarian trends, where narcissistic constituents’ unyielding loyalty elevates idolized leaders to power, preluding the establishment of toxic tyrannical governments.