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The Pathos of the Unconscious: Charlie Chaplin and Dreams

1997; Taylor & Francis; Volume: 25; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1080/01956059709602757

1930-6458

David James LeMaster,

Theatre and Performance Studies

Abstract The recent reemergence of Charlie Chaplin into the popular culture gives scholars an opportunity (and excuse) to reexamine the work of Chaplin the writer/director and his use of thematic devices as a tool for creating the “mask” we know as Charlie the Tramp. Although volumes exist analyzing Chaplin's work as an actor and detailing the themes of his films, Chaplin the director's creation of pathos challenges scholars (and directors) to dig even more deeply into his method for a better understanding of his achievement. Chaplin's use of subtlety helped him create a sense of pathos and charm that allowed Charlie the Tramp to become an Everyman.