When Valor Preys on Reason

Freud`s Psychoanalytic Theory

William Shakespeare`s quote “when valor preys on reason, it eats` the sword it fights with” can be interpreted multiple ways.  In essence, the meaning of this quote is if you try to justify valor or honor, it will impede your ability in whatever obstacles you are facing. Furthermore, if one fights against reason using the excuse of honor, then he or she is really fighting themselves, hence “…eats` the sword it fights with”.  

Another meaning for Shakespeare`s quote is to think strategically, not emotionally. In the heat of any moment, it is difficult for most people to not let their emotions get the best of them. In many instances, individuals will make irrational decisions because their “valor preys on reason”. Although easier said than done, it is important to not let your emotions influence your decisions too strongly (Halonen, 1996).

        This quote relates to Freud`s psychoanalytic theory, in which he divided personality structure into three main components: the id, ego, and superego. The id, according the textbook, is the “…primitive, instinctive component of personality that operates according to the pleasure principle”. The ego, on the other hand, is “the decision making component of personality that operates according to the reality principle” and the superego is “the moral component of personality that incorporates social standards about what represents right and wrong”. Freud believed that the interactions between the id, ego and superego represent ones behavior. Shakespeare implied that it is important to not let anyone of these components solely influence your decision-making ability.

        The id operates involuntarily, and compels humans to participate in activities that produce pleasure. When someone’s actions are a result of the id factor, they may make irrational decisions that they will later regret. The ego often represses some of the uncontrolled desires of the id. This balancing act helps ensure that decisions made in the heat of the moment are not illogical and that one does not overlook reason (Lapsley & Stey, 2011). Furthermore, the ego seeks to “find a balance between primitive drives and reality while satisfying the ID and Super-Ego.” The superego strives to be perfect according to society’s standards. It disciplines bad behavior with feelings of guilt and shame. For example, if a student cheats on an exam, they may feel remorse because they know there actions were wrong. To summarize, the superego attempts to operate in a socially acceptable way, while the id strives for immediate self-gratification (Navaneedhan, 2011).