An Object-Relational Interpretation of Thomas Mann’s Tristan

This paper, which analyzes Thomas Mann’s short story Tristan from an object-relational perspective, posits that Spinell, the protagonist, is functioning primarily in the schizoid position. Splitting, his primary defense mechanism, is discussed at length. His relationships with others are examined in light of his projection of his internal conflicts, with the idealized, sickly Gavriele representing his artistic, romantic and spiritual side, and her husband, thedetested Herr Kloterjahn, representing his more mundane self, Seduced by the romantic notions of Spinell and alienated from her husband, the embodiment of the life principle, Gabriele’s health deteriorates, and she becomes a willing participant in her own destruction. Ironic contrasts between Mann’s story and the story of Tristan und Isolde, whose narrative informs Mann’s story and gives it its title, are explored. It is argued that by the end of the novella, with the death of Gabriele, Spinell is momentarily forced to face reality, but chooses to run from it, and hence is headed for further withdrawal and decline.