Freud and Malinowski: Their Interaction in Burkeian Theory

• In Event: Permanence/Stability and Change: Burkean Perspectives

Abstract

Freud and Bronislaw Malinowski are a pair of theorists who influenced the explanatory principle of Burke's rhetorical theory and the shape of Burkeian theory. Essentially, using the concept of "Context of Situation" and his essay on Psychoanalysia, Burke used Malinowski to ward off a Freudian influence that seemed overwhelming. Ironically, Burke's defenses against Freudian theory were not completely successful, and Freud's influence reappeared in Burke's ideal of pure persuasion.

Author

• Mark Wright, Tsuda College