The Mental Gremlins of Inspector Javert: Can Psychoanalysis of a Fictional Character Throw Light on The Culprit Behind Harm OCD?

Abstract

Though its significance has been questioned time and again, there can be no denying the fact that humanities serve as a torch-bearer to the multiple mysteries lying in the deepest fathoms of the human mind. In the words of Barack Obama, former President of the US, “Throughout history, the arts and humanities have helped men and women around the globe grapple with the most challenging questions and come to know the most basic truths.” It can even be said that part of the vast body of study on the formation of human character have been made possible via bildungsroman portrayals of characters found in the pages of literature. These portrayals help unravel the complexities of the human mind and thought. By doing so, it provides insight not just into maladaptation in the human psyche but also the factors responsible for causing them. Often christened a “tragic legalist” by critics, the character of Inspector Javert from Victor Hugo’s ‘Les Miserables’ may be considered a maladaptive character—one obsessed with living in strict adherence with the codes of law. His obsession leads to compulsive behavior on his part where he appears obsessed with upholding law even at the expense of humanitarian consideration. This ultimately leads to his undoing as he is unable to adhere to the unrealistic moral standards which he sets for himself in the face of humanitarianism. Ever fearful of the imaginary outcome of being unable to meet his self-defined moral standards, Javert may be exhibiting characteristics of a sub-type of OCD called ‘Harm OCD’. This article, via a detailed psychoanalysis of the character of Inspector Javert tries to determine the causative factor behind Harm OCD.