PLOT ANALYSIS
The plot analysis technique is a Jungian method of exploring the meaning of the dream. There are four phases that an individual examines when using this technique:
THE EXPOSITION
The exposition is a detailed description of the PLACE where the ACTION of the dream takes place. It also contains the TIME in which the situation takes place; the past, present or the future. The exposition also tells about the CONDITION or SITUATION of the dream in which the subjects find themselves at the beginning of the dream. It also gives some information about the PROTAGANIST or a detailed definition of just what the PROBLEM is that the dreamer is facing.
THE CONFLICT
Next the conflict in the dream is described in detail. Included in this description is how the situation became complicated in the first place and the type of complications that are now resulting.
CULMINATION
The culmination describes the action or decisive happening that brings the situation to a point where it must be resolved. What is the pivot point that the conflict comes to that it must be resolved?
RESOLUTION
How is the conflict within the dream resolved and a solution reached? What is the outcome of the conflict?
DESIRED OUTCOME
Another step that can be made at this point is to determine what is the ideal outcome of the dream. How would you resolve the dream conflict and how does your resolution differ from what really occurred in the dream?
COMPARISON
Many times the material of the dream state is related to the material of the waking state. The dream is a creative method to resolve the conflicts of the day. Take some time and list the similarities that you can find between these two states and see how the results of the dream can be applied to your everyday life. Possible conflicts:
- extravert/introvert
- humble/assertive
- shy/venturesome
- self-assured/apprehensive
- controlled/undisciplined
- serious/carefree
- trusting/suspicious
- conservative/experimental
- relaxed/tense
- expedient/conscientious
- physical/spiritual
- practical/imaginative
- group dependent/self-sufficient
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