“Scientific and Specialized Journal of Modern Literary Research”

“Scientific and Specialized Journal of Modern Literary Research”

Mechanisms of smooth defense in the character of Sudabah in Ferdowsi's Shahnameh

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
saeed tarzami 1
Naime Omde Ghiyasi 2
1 PhD in Persian Language and Literature, lecturer in medical science university of Tabriz Nabi akram University college Osve moaser University college
2 PhD student in Persian Language and Literature, Tabriz Azad University, Lecturer in the Department of Humanities, National University of Skills, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
Psychologists believe that certain psychological knots are the driving force behind many human behaviors. In the face of various stresses, individuals employ defense mechanisms to prevent psychological collapse. Freud and his colleagues termed these mechanisms "psychological defense mechanisms." Anxiety and feelings of inferiority are the primary causes of psychological disintegration, and defense mechanisms are activated when deep-seated anxiety overwhelms the psyche. Rationalization, projection, compensation, denial, repression, and many other such mechanisms are defensive reactions to stress.
This paper aims to examine the motivations behind Sudaba's abnormal behaviors in Ferdowsi's Shahnameh from the perspective of psychological defense mechanisms. Her betrayal of her husband is rooted in the defense mechanism of splitting, while her false accusations against Siavash exemplify projection. Rationalization is her primary defense mechanism about Siavash. Invalidation and aggression are also defense mechanisms that manifest in Sudaba when she experiences psychological stress.
The findings of this study suggest that Sudaba's abnormal behaviors stem from deep-rooted personality complexes. These complexes can be analyzed and addressed through the lens of psychology.
Keywords
Psychological defense mechanisms
Freud
Shahnameh
Sudaba
Subjects
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“Scientific and Specialized Journal of Modern Literary Research”
Volume 4, Issue 2 - Serial Number 8
autumn and winter 2025
September 2025
Pages 185-199