ENVY REVISITED
Patricia Polledri
ABSTRACT This paper is a study of the concept and the affect of envy. Because
of its singular dynamics, envy rarely appears in a straightforward or direct
manner, so a consideration of the various ways in which envy influences interpersonal
relationships is examined in relation to the consequences of early
pathological attachments. A distinction between envy, jealousy and greed, and
the part shame plays in relation to envious tension will be examined as well as
the phenomenon of self-envy. Various theoretical models will be discussed in
terms of their usefulness and application to the clinical material. Rather than
seeking to alter or amend the theoretical grounds on the concept of envy, this
paper focuses on the expression of envy as a form of destructive behaviour –
destructive to the patient, to his objects and to the therapeutic process.
Introduction
Envy is a state of extreme tension, torment and ill will, provoked by an overwhelming
sense of inferiority, impotence and worthlessness and conversely
an awareness and fear of worth, prestige and superiority in another. It begins
in the eye of the beholder and is so painful to the mind that the envious
person will go to almost any lengths to diminish, if not destroy, whatever or
whoever may have aroused it (Berke 1985).
Iago, in Shakespeare’s Othello, is a master of cunning and deceit. He is
exploiting his own and Othello’s feelings for the purpose of Othello’s
downfall. His ensuing knavery is far worse than physical abuse or even
murder; it involves a compulsion to destroy the very essence of the victim
through the conscious mischief-making, lies and manipulation which he
relishes. In his ruthless urge to annihilate Othello’s quality, power and
integrity, Iago attacks his victim from within; he is a psychic sadist who
wreaks vengeance by destroying Othello’s peace of mind. Iago demonstrates
a central feature of envious ill will – the determination to undermine
happiness in the other and replace contentment and calm with agitation
ENVY REVISITED
Patricia Polledri
ABSTRACT This paper is a study of the concept and the affect...
Patricia Polledri
ABSTRACT This paper is a study of the concept and the affect of envy. Because
of its singular dynamics, envy rarely appears in a straightforward or direct
manner, so a consideration of the various ways in which envy influences interpersonal
relationships is examined in relation to the consequences of early
pathological attachments. A distinction between envy, jealousy and greed, and
the part shame plays in relation to envious tension will be examined as well as
the phenomenon of self-envy. Various theoretical models will be discussed in
terms of their usefulness and application to the clinical material. Rather than
seeking to alter or amend the theoretical grounds on the concept of envy, this
paper focuses on the expression of envy as a form of destructive behaviour –
destructive to the patient, to his objects and to the therapeutic process.
Introduction
Envy is a state of extreme tension, torment and ill will, provoked by an overwhelming
sense of inferiority, impotence and worthlessness and conversely
an awareness and fear of worth, prestige and superiority in another. It begins
in the eye of the beholder and is so painful to the mind that the envious
person will go to almost any lengths to diminish, if not destroy, whatever or
whoever may have aroused it (Berke 1985).
Iago, in Shakespeare’s Othello, is a master of cunning and deceit. He is
exploiting his own and Othello’s feelings for the purpose of Othello’s
downfall. His ensuing knavery is far worse than physical abuse or even
murder; it involves a compulsion to destroy the very essence of the victim
through the conscious mischief-making, lies and manipulation which he
relishes. In his ruthless urge to annihilate Othello’s quality, power and
integrity, Iago attacks his victim from within; he is a psychic sadist who
wreaks vengeance by destroying Othello’s peace of mind. Iago demonstrates
a central feature of envious ill will – the determination to undermine
happiness in the other and replace contentment and calm with agitation