The Dark Mind: A Psychoanalytic Exploration of Voldemort in J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter

Abstract

This article explores the psyche of Lord Voldemort and delves into his unconscious mind. It analyzes the roles of the Id, Ego, and Superego in his character and uncovers the transformation of Tom Riddle into Lord Voldemort, diving deep into his childhood, following his time as a student at Hogwarts, and his later years working at Borgin and Burkes, through flashbacks and memories originally taken from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This article utilizes a qualitative method and descriptive research design and argues that Tom Riddle's character is heavily influenced by Id, which blinds him to his shortcomings. His obsession with power and quest for immortality ultimately lead to his self-destruction, despite his awareness of the fact that eternal life is unattainable. Additionally, his lonely childhood and twisted lineage as a half-blood contribute to his descent into evil and the development of his dark psyche.

Keywords: Unconscious mind, Id, Ego, Superego, Psychoanalysis, Half-Blood