"Mythotherapy" in the novel "The Magus" by J. Fowles

The subject of the study is the concept of "mythotherapy" in J. Fowles' novel "The Magus". Special attention is given to the theory of myth and archetypes by C.G. Jung, which forms the basis of mythologism in the work. The author of the article examines the process of individuation in Nicholas Urfe's mythological journey. Delving into myth triggers intense psychological experiences in the main character, corresponding to the healing effects of archetypes in Jung's understanding. A central aspect of this journey is the "animating" of archetypes, accompanied by a particular emotional uplift. Mythology is viewed as a therapeutic means of restoring and integrating the conscious and unconscious components of personality. The archetype of God, the Old man, the supreme being, embodied in the image of the magician Conchis, is highlighted and described. Nicholas's experiences regarding the magic of Burani resemble an encounter with "numinosity" as one of the aspects of the image of God in Jung's interpretation. The methodology of the work is based on a mythopoetic approach, presuming the study of mythological images and motifs in the work. An archetypal method is employed, grounded in Jung's depth psychology theory, allowing the identification of primordial images embodied in the text from the collective unconscious. A significant contribution of the author to the study of the topic is the idea of the psychotherapeutic effect of mythology in J. Fowles' "The Magus". The plot of individuation and the attainment of Self, linked to Jung's concept, unfolds as a physical, spiritual, existential, and cyclical journey of the main character. In the process of exploring the world and self-discovery, key elements include mythological plots and images, repeated archetypal situations associated with the deep structures of the human psyche, and the quest for meaning and self-realization. The myths present in the novel symbolize the path of individuation – the process of becoming a whole person through overcoming internal and external obstacles. As a result of the analysis, it was found that immersion in mythology has a psychotherapeutic effect on the hero, allowing him to realize his calling, free will, and uniqueness.