The Oedipus Complex in Foundation: Cleon's relationship with Demerzel and his mother's death

In the episode "Long Ago, Not Far Away" of the TV series "Foundation," the character of Cleon, the prince of the Entun Dynasty, goes through a series of events that intricately showcase a relationship with his mother's death and a complex dynamic with Demerzel, an age-old segmented woman. This particular portrayal draws intriguing parallels to the Oedipus Complex, a concept from Greek mythology that Freud popularized in psychoanalytic theory.One of the central aspects in the Oedipus Complex is the deep emotional attachment and intense love a son can hold for his mother. In the episode, Cleon's emotions are heavily influenced by his mother's passing and the burden of responsibility he feels as he prepares to ascend to the throne. These circumstances, combined with his encounter with Demerzel, create a complex web of emotions and desires that mirror the essence of the Oedipus Complex.Cleon's journey begins when he stumbles upon a hidden hallway in his palace, where he discovers Demerzel, a segmented woman who holds stories about the Empire's history and Earth, a long-lost home planet. Cleon's encounters with Demerzel allow him to escape from the weight of his mother's death and the pressure to uphold the legacy of his ruling dynasty.In the Oedipus Complex, the son often seeks a maternal figure to replace his mother's love. In this case, Demerzel embodies that figure for Cleon. Even though he initially rejects her offer to free her, Cleon continues to visit Demerzel, seeking solace and emotional support. Their relationship evolves, with Cleon repairing Demerzel and presenting her with a gift from Earth, symbolizing his growing connection to her.Furthermore, Cleon's desire to be close to Demerzel intensifies as he asks her to share a story about a concubine who forgets her encounters with the king. This story reflects his burgeoning attraction and longing for Demerzel, drawing another parallel to the Oedipal desires of a son for his mother.As the story unfolds, Cleon's infatuation with Demerzel reaches its apex. He breaks off his arranged marriage, confesses his love for her, and creates a device that allows her to move freely but restricts her power. This act reveals Cleon's desire to possess Demerzel and have her bound to him, just as the Oedipal complex involves a son's desire to possess his mother exclusively.However, Demerzel questions the true meaning of freedom, highlighting that Cleon's attachment to her might not necessarily align with the freedom she desires. Nevertheless, she accepts Cleon's love, emphasizing the interplay of emotions and desires presented by the Oedipus Complex.The exploration of Cleon's relationship with Demerzel and his mother's death in the episode "Long Ago, Not Far Away" effectively illustrates the intricate dynamics of the Oedipus Complex. Cleon's initial grief, subsequent infatuation, and the complicated power dynamics aptly mirror the complexities of the Oedipal desires and emotions experienced by the son in the Greek mythological narrative.While the episode expands beyond the Oedipus Complex to include other plotlines and conflict, it is undoubtedly fascinating to see how the show's creators have incorporated this psychological concept into the character development and narrative arc of Cleon. By merging elements of Greek mythology, psychoanalytic theory, and science fiction, "Foundation" offers viewers an engaging exploration of psychological themes through captivating storytelling.