A jungian analysis of mugo's guilt and inner conflict in ngugi wa thiong'o's a grain of wheat (1967)

Abstract

This study analyzes the psychological development of Mugo, the protagonist in Ngugi wa Thiong.o.s A Grain of Wheat, from a Jungian perspective. It traces the development of Mugo.s guilt from concealment to confession and examines the character's inner turmoil throughout this process. Using Jung.s analytical psychology, the study investigates the construction of Mugo.s shadow and persona and the eventual conflict between them, leading to the final confession as a step toward individuation. The research also highlights the role of the unconscious mind in shaping Mugo.s personality and psychological state throughout the narrative. It reveals how unconscious forces, particularly guilt, fear, and the drive for self-preservation, affect his actions and interactions, often resulting in anxiety, suspicion, and irrationality.