Introduction

“A folktale is an old story that’s been told again and again, often for generations” (Vocabulary.Com, n.d.). In their oral transmission, folktales have long served as repositories of cultural values and psychological insights, often using animal characters to explore complex human emotions and relationships. How the Jellyfish Lost its Shell, a Japanese folktale, is a prime example of this. The tale tells the story of a jellyfish tasked with bringing a live monkey to the Dragon King’s palace to cure the ailing Dragon Queen. Through this narrative, the tale examines the themes of trickery, loyalty, and punishment—concepts rich with psychological meaning. By applying the lenses of Jungian and Freudian theory, we can delve deeper into the underlying messages of the story, especially when it comes to the monkey's cleverness, the turtle’s devotion, and the jellyfish’s downfall.

Trickery and Cleverness:

The Monkey's Archetypal Role

From a Jungian perspective, the monkey embodies the "Trickster" archetype, a figure known for using wit and deception to navigate challenging situations. As noted in Encyclopedia.com (2019), “Tricksters are among the most entertaining characters in world mythology. Usually male, they delight in breaking rules, boasting, and playing tricks on both humans and gods.” Jung identified the Trickster as an agent of transformation, whose cleverness can create chaos but also facilitate growth. In this tale, the monkey’s ability to outsmart the jellyfish by claiming it left its liver on a tree illustrates the Trickster’s pivotal role in altering the course of events. Far from being a passive victim, the monkey emerges as an active participant who leverages intelligence to evade death, symbolizing humanity's capacity for adaptability and resilience in the face of peril.

Freud, on the other hand, might interpret the monkey’s trickery through the lens of the ego’s defense mechanisms. As Holland (2022) explains, “Defense mechanisms refer to psychological strategies or behaviors that people may use to cope with difficult feelings, thoughts, or events.” Confronted with the immediate threat of death, fully linked to feelings and life events, the monkey employs rationalization as a means of self-preservation, fabricating the story of its liver being elsewhere to delay its fate. This clever deception can be seen as a manifestation of the ego’s capacity to distort reality to shield the self from harm. From a Freudian perspective, the monkey’s behavior highlights the intricate interplay between survival instincts and the unconscious mind, underscoring the ego’s role in navigating existential threats.

Loyalty and Devotion:

The Turtle’s Mission

The turtle, tasked with bringing the monkey to the Dragon King’s palace, symbolizes loyalty and devotion to authority. Jung might interpret the turtle as embodying the "Servant" or "Loyal Companion" archetype, a figure committed to fulfilling its duty without question. As McGregor (2019) notes, “The Servant is an altruistic character that finds joy in service to oneself and the world.” The turtle’s unwavering dedication to completing the Queen's request highlights the collective values of obedience and service, which are central themes in many traditional tales. This portrayal also underscores the prioritization of the communal over the individual, resonating with Jungian concepts of the collective unconscious, where loyalty to the group or ruler plays a crucial role in human psychology.

From a Freudian perspective, the turtle’s behavior can be interpreted as a manifestation of the superego, the component of the psyche that governs moral standards and societal expectations. As Hreha (n.d.) explains, “The superego represents the internalized societal values and moral standards, functioning as a moral compass and creating feelings of guilt or pride depending on how well one’s actions align with those standards.” The turtle unquestioningly follows its orders, reflecting the superego’s strict adherence to authority and its suppression of rebellion. By embodying an internalized sense of duty and obligation, the turtle illustrates the superego’s role in controlling human behavior in accordance with external authority. Its unwavering loyalty symbolizes the psyche’s submission to societal demands, mirroring Freud’s notion of the internal conflict between personal desires and the pressures of moral and social expectations.

The Jellyfish’s Downfall:

Punishment and the “Big Mouth”

The jellyfish’s punishment for failing its mission is a central theme of the story, representing the consequences of indiscretion and failure. From a Jungian perspective, the jellyfish’s “big mouth” and its subsequent punishment can be interpreted as symbolic of the "Shadow"—the unconscious, darker aspect of the psyche that contains repressed qualities. As Cherry (2024) explains, “The Shadow is part of the unconscious mind and is composed of repressed ideas, weaknesses, desires, instincts, and shortcomings.” The jellyfish’s inability to guard its tongue, revealing the true purpose of bringing the monkey to the Dragon King, reflects the Shadow's uncontrolled influence. This lack of restraint not only exposes hidden motives but also results in severe consequences: the jellyfish loses its shell, symbolizing the loss of protection and identity. Jungian theory suggests that when the Shadow remains unintegrated and unchecked, it can lead to self-sabotage and downfall, as seen in the jellyfish’s fate.

Freud might interpret the jellyfish’s behavior as a manifestation of the id, the most primitive part of the psyche that operates on the pleasure principle, seeking immediate gratification without regard for consequences. As Ackerman (2018) explains, “Instant (or immediate) gratification is a term that refers to the temptation, and resulting tendency, to forego a future benefit in order to obtain a less rewarding but more immediate benefit.” The jellyfish’s inability to keep the secret of the Queen's cure exemplifies the impulsive nature of the id, which prioritizes immediate relief or expression over long-term outcomes. By revealing the truth to the monkey, the jellyfish disregards the potential repercussions, demonstrating how unchecked impulses can lead to self-destruction. Its punishment—losing its protective shell—symbolizes the consequences of failing to regulate primal urges. Freud’s theory underscores the crucial role of the ego in mediating the id's desires and maintaining balance between impulsive instincts and the demands of reality.

Trickery vs. Devotion:

A Psychological Duality

The juxtaposition of the monkey’s trickery and the turtle’s loyalty highlights a psychological duality present in all human beings. Jung would argue that these characters represent opposing archetypes within the collective unconscious: the Trickster, who challenges authority and disrupts order, and the Loyal Servant, who reinforces societal norms and maintains stability. This duality reflects the tension between individuality and conformity, a theme central to many folktales. The story suggests that both archetypes are necessary to navigate life’s challenges—cleverness to escape danger, and loyalty to maintain relationships and structure.

Freud’s theory of the psyche would frame this duality as the constant battle between the id (the monkey’s trickery) and the superego (the turtle’s loyalty). The ego, embodied by the jellyfish, is caught in the middle, attempting to balance these forces. The jellyfish’s failure to successfully mediate between its desire to complete the mission and its impulsive revelation of the truth leads to its downfall, reflecting Freud’s belief that psychological balance is essential for survival in a structured society.

Punishment as Transformation

Jung might interpret the jellyfish’s punishment not merely as retribution but as a profound form of transformation. The loss of its protective shell symbolizes a rebirth or initiation into a new state of being. As Holt (2023) explains, “Rebirth is one archetypal pattern that Jung observed in myth and psychological experience, which he differentiated into five forms.” This story aligns particularly with the fourth form of rebirth: transformation, wherein characters endure trials or punishment that fundamentally alter them, often for the better. The jellyfish’s now-soft body serves as a metaphor for vulnerability and emotional openness, suggesting that through punishment and loss, individuals may gain greater self-awareness and humility. Shedding its shell could symbolize the release of the ego’s protective armor, enabling the jellyfish to accept a more vulnerable, yet authentic, existence. This transformation underscores the Jungian idea that trials often lead to personal growth and a deeper connection with one’s inner self.

Freud’s interpretation of the jellyfish’s punishment would center on the consequences of unbridled impulses. As Firanda (2008) explains, “The id exists from the moment someone is born and is part of the human mind responsible for all the energy needed to operate the system of all other structures of personality.” In this Japanese folk story, the jellyfish’s loss of its shell symbolizes the price of allowing the id to dominate, leading to a regression into a less protected, more vulnerable state. This aligns with Freud’s belief that unchecked desires can result in personal downfall—a societal lesson enforced through punishment to maintain control over the id. As Cherry (2024) notes, “Although people eventually learn to control the id, this part of personality remains the same infantile, primal force throughout life. It is the development of the ego and the superego that allows people to control the id's basic instincts and act in ways that are both realistic and socially acceptable.” The jellyfish’s inability to regulate its impulses reflects a failure to develop the ego and superego’s restraining influence, underscoring the destructive potential of the id when left unchecked.

Conclusion

How the Jellyfish Lost its Shell provides a rich narrative that, when viewed through the lenses of Jungian and Freudian psychology, offers profound insights into human behavior. The monkey’s cleverness embodies the Trickster archetype and the ego’s defense mechanisms, while the turtle’s devotion reflects the superego’s role in enforcing societal norms. The jellyfish’s indiscretion and subsequent punishment reveal the destructive potential of unchecked impulses and the transformative nature of punishment. Ultimately, the tale serves as a cautionary reminder of the delicate balance between wit and loyalty, and the consequences of failing to mediate between competing psychological forces.

Key Aspect and Themes

Key aspects and themes of How the Jellyfish Lost its Shell (Acuña-Solano, Literary Reflective Journaling: How the Jellyfish Lost its Shell - "Themes", 2024):

1. Trickery and Cleverness

• The story highlights a recurring theme in folklore: the use of cleverness and wit to escape danger. The monkey, though initially tricked by the jellyfish, quickly realizes the threat and outsmarts the jellyfish by claiming it left its liver on a tree. This clever ruse saves the monkey's life.
• Similar to other folktales around the world, this emphasizes the value of intelligence and quick thinking in precarious situations, especially when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds.

2. Punishment and Consequence

• After the jellyfish fails in its mission, the Dragon King punishes it by stripping it off its shell, leaving it soft and vulnerable. This punishment explains the jellyfish’s present-day form, a common motif in folktales where an animal’s physical characteristics are explained through narrative.
• The idea of punishment for failure or disobedience is common in moral tales, especially those aimed at teaching a lesson about loyalty or responsibility. The jellyfish's loss of its shell represents the consequence of failing in its duty.

3. Hierarchy and Loyalty

• The story also reflects the hierarchical structure of the animal world, mirroring the feudal social system in which the story was told. The jellyfish, as a servant to the Dragon King and Queen, must carry out their orders without question, a reflection of the loyalty expected from subjects to their rulers in Japanese culture.
• The jellyfish’s misstep shows how servitude and loyalty must be paired with competence. Loyalty alone is not enough; success in service is essential to maintaining one's standing.

4. Gender Roles and Power Dynamics

• The fact that it is the Dragon Queen who is ill and in need of the monkey’s liver adds an interesting layer. Although the king is the figure of authority, the story centers on his efforts to save the queen, which could suggest the importance of her role or the centrality of women in certain aspects of myth and health.
• There is also an interesting dynamic in the queen’s passive role, as she doesn’t actively participate in the story, reflecting traditional gender roles in older narratives.

5. Cultural Significance

• The tale reflects aspects of traditional Japanese culture, particularly through the depiction of the Dragon King’s underwater kingdom, which ties into Japan’s strong connection to the sea.
• Folktales like this often serve not only as entertainment but also as a way to impart cultural values, such as loyalty, responsibility, and resourcefulness.

6. Morality

• As with many folktales, there’s a moral aspect to the story. The jellyfish’s punishment serves as a cautionary tale about failing to fulfill one’s duties, while the monkey’s cleverness underscores the importance of intelligence over brute strength.

Themes and Symbolism

"How the Jellyfish Lost Its Shell" is rich with themes and symbolism, making it a fascinating story to explore further (Acuña-Solano, Literay Reflective Journaling: Themes and Symbolism in How the Jellyfish Lost its Shell, 2024). Here are some additional ideas and angles to delve into, whether for a literary analysis, a classroom discussion, or further research:

1. Cultural Context and Symbolism

• The Role of the Dragon King: In Japanese folklore, dragons often symbolize power, authority, and natural forces. The Dragon King's command reflects the hierarchical structures of ancient societies, where loyalty and duty were paramount. This could be explored in relation to how authority figures influence actions, even if they lead to morally ambiguous decisions.
• The Significance of the Jellyfish: Traditionally, jellyfish are seen as fragile and transient creatures. The story of how the jellyfish lost its shell may symbolize the loss of protection or status due to naivety or betrayal. You could explore how the story reflects societal values around wisdom, loyalty, and the consequences of failing one’s duty.

2. Psychological Analysis

• Jungian Archetypes: Each character in the story fits a Jungian archetype:
• The Monkey as the Trickster: The monkey embodies cleverness, adaptability, and rebellion against authority, using wit to outsmart its captors.
• The Turtle as the Loyal Servant: The turtle’s unwavering dedication to the mission can be seen as the archetype of the loyal retainer, embodying duty and obedience.
• The Jellyfish as the Innocent: Initially, the jellyfish's willingness to befriend and trust the monkey could symbolize innocence or gullibility, which leads to its downfall.
• Freudian Analysis: The story also lends itself to a Freudian interpretation, where each character represents aspects of the human psyche:
• The Monkey (Id): Driven by self-preservation and cunning.
• The Turtle (Superego): Upholding loyalty and duty, even when the mission is harsh.
• The Jellyfish (Ego): Struggling to balance the orders from above with its interactions, ultimately failing to assert itself.

3. Themes of Loyalty, Betrayal, and Punishment

• Loyalty vs. Self-Preservation: The turtle’s loyalty contrasts sharply with the monkey’s self-preservation instincts. This duality can be explored in a broader context, such as the tensions between personal interests and communal obligations.
• Consequences of Betrayal: The jellyfish’s punishment is a stark example of how failing to fulfill one’s duty can lead to severe consequences. The loss of its shell is symbolic of losing honor or status in a traditional society.

4. Moral Lessons and Ethical Dilemmas

• Moral Ambiguity: The story raises questions about the ethics of sacrificing an innocent creature (the monkey) for the benefit of someone in power (the Dragon Queen). It also questions the fairness of punishing the jellyfish for its failure, given the circumstances.
• The Trickster’s Role: The monkey’s cleverness in escaping is celebrated, but it also raises moral questions about deceit and manipulation. You could explore whether the story encourages or critiques such behavior.

5. Comparative Analysis with Other Folktales

• Comparison with Aesop’s Fables: The trickery of the monkey is reminiscent of tales from Aesop, where clever animals often outwit their adversaries. You could compare how different cultures view cunning and intelligence as either virtuous or problematic traits.
• Parallels with African Trickster Tales: Characters like Anansi the Spider or Iktomi the Sioux spider share similarities with the monkey in their use of trickery to achieve their goals. Exploring these parallels could reveal common themes across cultures.

6. Adaptation and Modern Retellings

• Possible Adaptations: Consider how this story could be adapted into different media—such as a children’s book, a play, or even an animated short. Each adaptation could focus on different elements, such as the humor of the monkey’s trickery or the tragedy of the jellyfish’s loss.
• Lessons for Modern Audiences: The story could be reinterpreted to address contemporary issues, such as the consequences of blind loyalty, the importance of critical thinking, or the pitfalls of being overly trusting.

7. Symbolic Use of Animals in Japanese Folklore

• Animal Symbolism: Explore how animals are used in Japanese folklore to represent human traits. The monkey is often seen as clever and mischievous, the turtle as wise and patient, and the jellyfish as delicate and vulnerable. This story could be a starting point for a broader analysis of animal symbolism in Asian folklore.

8. Linguistic and Translation Analysis

• William Elliot Griffis’ Translation: Analyze the language used in Griffis' translation. How does his choice of words influence the tone and moral of the story? You could explore how different translations might alter the story’s meaning, especially when considering cultural nuances.
• Exploration of Original Japanese Terms: Look into the original Japanese version of the story, if available, to see how specific terms and phrases might have unique cultural connotations that are lost or altered in translation.

9. Philosophical and Ethical Reflections

• The Dilemma of Sacrifice: The Dragon King’s willingness to sacrifice another creature for the Queen's health can be explored in light of ethical theories, such as utilitarianism versus deontological ethics.
• Consequences of Truth and Lies: The jellyfish’s punishment can be seen as a cautionary tale about the consequences of speaking too freely or failing to exercise caution in delicate matters.

References

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Acuña-Solano, J. (2024, October 5). Literary Reflective Journaling: How the Jellyfish Lost its Shell - "Themes". Reflective Journaling - October 2024. San José, Costa Rica.

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