A STUDY OF LIFE AND DEATH INSTINCTS IN PAULO COELHO’S VERONIKA DECIDES TO DIE

Abstract

The source used in this writing is qualitative data which mean the data are in a form of texts. Data collection in this thesis is documentary study. The data are documented from selected quotations of the novel. This thesis is a descriptive study which elaborates Freudian psychology theory of Id, Ego and Superego and their relation to the production of Eros and Thanatos which are derived solely from id. Eros and Thanatos then become energy of life. The result of this thesis indicates that there is a connection between the balance of Eros and Thanatos to the meaning and motivation of life. By any means, the result indicates that happiness can only be meaningful if one experiences sadness and vice versa. However, the existence of love contributes to significant roles in giving motivation since it carries happiness and sadness together at the same time. Veronika in the end of story finds her motive to continue her life by this balance. She completes the hollow within her life by merging the Eros and Thanatos. Eventually, Instincts as the id energy has become essential for Veronika to be ready in facing other two elements in life, Ego and Superego.