The relation between the hero, often a forensic profiler or behavioural psychologist, and the killer is one of the key elements in many thriller novels. The other parts of the story are put around these two interdependent characters.
Even if they are completely unrelated in the beginning of the book, one can presume that in the developing story the killer will be a threat to the profiler himself/herself or a person near to him/her, which makes for the personal connection.
In this paper, I will try to analyse the psychological effects of this special bonding, primarily focusing on the profiler. When looking at the killer, I will mainly describe the reaction to the interference of the profiler and partly, hence, the personal motive. The analysis is based on "The Body Farm" and "Point of Origin" by Patricia Cornwell, and "Killing the Shadows" by Val McDermid.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Basic differences
- Basic similarities
- Physical and mental effects on the profiler
- The Body Farm
- Point of Origin
- Killing the Shadows
- Action/reaction and personal motive of the killer
- The Body Farm
- Point of Origin
- Killing the Shadows
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper analyzes the psychological effects of the relationship between a forensic profiler and a killer in thriller novels, focusing on the profiler's perspective. The analysis specifically examines the emotional and mental impact of the relationship, as well as the killer's motives and reactions to the profiler's involvement. The paper draws upon three novels: The Body Farm and Point of Origin by Patricia Cornwell, and Killing the Shadows by Val McDermid.
- The psychological effects of the killer-profiler relationship on the profiler
- The motivations and reactions of the killer
- The influence of personal trauma on the profilers' approach to their work
- The contrast in personalities and work styles between the two main characters
- The role of gender and power dynamics in the thriller genre
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter sets the stage for the analysis, introducing the central theme of the killer-profiler relationship in thriller novels and outlining the key elements that will be explored. The paper focuses on the psychological effects of this relationship, primarily on the profiler, and examines the killer's motives and reactions to the profiler's interference. The analysis is based on three novels: The Body Farm and Point of Origin by Patricia Cornwell, and Killing the Shadows by Val McDermid.
- Basic Differences: This chapter delves into the key differences between the novels by Patricia Cornwell and Val McDermid, highlighting the contrasting settings, professions, and personalities of the main characters. It discusses the specific circumstances and past traumas that have shaped the characters' approaches to their work and their personal lives.
- Basic Similarities: This chapter explores commonalities between the novels, particularly the dominant role of the female hero, a departure from the traditional portrayal of male protagonists in the thriller genre. The chapter examines the psychological roots of the heroines' actions and how their past experiences have influenced their motivations and approaches to their work.
- Physical and mental effects on the profiler: This chapter focuses on the psychological and physical effects of the profiler's work on the main characters. It analyzes how the constant exposure to violent crimes and the emotionally demanding nature of the job can impact their mental and emotional well-being. The chapter draws upon examples from The Body Farm to illustrate these effects.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This paper explores the key concepts of forensic profiling, thriller novels, psychological effects, killer-profiler relationship, serial killers, emotional trauma, personality, and gender dynamics within the context of literary analysis. It examines the influence of personal trauma and professional experience on the profiler's character and their interactions with criminals. The analysis delves into the complexities of human behavior and the psychological motivations behind criminal actions, drawing insights from the selected novels.
- Citation du texte
- Christian Cronauer (Auteur), 2004, The killer-profiler relation in thriller novels, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/29307
