Ophelia
Syndrome



2017
 
Ophelia is one of the most iconic female characters in literature and art, symbolizing misery and hysteria and ending her suffering by taking her own life. The romanticized portrayal of dead or dying women has a long and troubling history in both literature and art, and yet it continues to fascinate artists and viewers alike.

The aim of this project is to explore the complexity of what has been called Ophelia syndrome: the artistic fascination with suicide, and specifically, female suicide. Despite the disturbing nature of this obsession, there is something captivating about Ophelia's floating form that has inspired artists for centuries. Why are artists so drawn to the beauty of lifeless women? What drives their obsession with a particular subject, and what does it say about their own experiences and perspectives?

The subject of the project is complex and has been discussed by thinkers throughout the centuries, with no clear answers. The romanticized idea of the lifeless beautiful woman is deeply embedded in history, with examples ranging from Cleopatra to Lucretia. While this fascination was most prominent during the Romantic era, its echo persists today. The tragic acts of historical figures have been interpreted by artists as both heroic and weak or hysterical gestures, inspiring works of art that endure to this day.

However, while the project bears Ophelia's name, its focus is on all tragic women, both real and fictional. The romanticization of despair leading to a tragic ending is what inspired the research. The aim of the practical project is to explore the moment before the tragic death and present it with a different tone and character, one of affirmation and strength rather than helplessness. This interpretation empowers women rather than dispossessing them of their independence in their final act, and adds to a realistic portrayal of suicide through photographic and aesthetic realism.

Ultimately, the interpretation of Ophelia and other tragic women is subjective and depends on each individual's experience and knowledge. By exploring this complex and troubling subject, the project aims to deepen our understanding of the role of art and literature in shaping our perceptions of life, death, and the human experience.