Abstract

Sons and Lovers is one of the most famous novels of D.H. Lawrence. This novel centers around the predicament of the protagonist Paul during his growth and mental changes resulting from it. During Paul’s growth, his strong dependency on his mother produces the twisted Oedipus complex, which eventually leads to his loss of self. This article analyzes Paul’s growth through the psychological concept of Oedipus Complex, pointing out the fact that father’s absence and the intensive Oedipus complex during his childhood contribute to Paul’s loss of self. Although Paul is under the influence of Oedipus complex, he still makes attempts to get rid of his mother’s influence, and thus achieve self-emancipation and true independence.

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