PSYCHOANALYSIS OF NORMA’S CHARACTER IN BUTTON BUTTON BY RICHARD MATHESON

Abstract

People can experience catharsis and gain insight into their current state of mind by bringing the content of the unconscious into conscious awareness. Through this process, a person can find relief from psychological distress. The present study aimed to analyse the character of Norma, the protagonist, in the short story “Button Button” by Richard Matheson. The study delves into Norma's most private thoughts which led her to commit such a heinous crime. The primary source of conflict in this story is the incompatibility between Norma and Arthur who are married to each other. In terms of their thoughts, they are opposed to each other. Arthur is a man of morality whereas Norma is a bit of a philanthropist who has held on to a few dreams during their married life together. She was willing to go to any length to have her desires met, even if it meant losing her husband. When she receives the $50,000 offer, she is overjoyed to the point of becoming enraged with greed. She wished to see that the offer for her desire was fulfilled, regardless of whether or not anyone died. As a result, the story is in a state of conflict. The study's goal is to find out what her deepest desires are.