Have you ever come across the term alter ego? This union of words has a somewhat interesting meaning. In literature and psychology the term is very common. The noun phrase originates from the Latin “alter” (other), “ego” (I), thus meaning “another me”. Let's understand better through some details!
What is alter ego?
To define the alter ego we need to look at two sides, the literal and the psychological. Its meaning of “another me” says a lot, but let's take a closer look.
In literature, alter ego refers to a mysterious identity of a certain literary character. It is very common to see this type of camouflage strategy by authors in their books. Usually, the alter ego is used to put part of the author's life in his works. It is a way of showing your personality through a character.
It is very normal to see thousands of literary works with the alter ego of their authors. This makes them able to show themselves through their books without directly identifying themselves.
In the view of psychology, the alter ego is determined as the second personality of each one. This other self, in this case, is totally tied to the unconscious of the people who carry it. It is identified when a person reveals signs of multiple identities and is directly associated with the Dissociative Identity Disorder.
On the other hand, an alter ego can also be a brother, a friend and even an advisor, if he is very close and reliable. We can say that it is that close person who has attitudes very similar to ours. At the end of the day, he's someone you trust with your eyes closed, but when you open them, you can see yourself.
Characters and the alter ego
Many characters we know have an alter ego, among the best known are those from the comics: Batman, by Bruce Wayne; Spider-Man, by Peter Parker; Hulk, by Bruce Banner; Clark Kent from Superman, etc.
Bruce Wayne, Batman's alter ego is completely irresponsible and carefree. On the other hand, Batman is a determined, cold, and ruthless hero; which makes him a great advocate for victims. Peter Parker who represents Spider-Man, is a young man who sees himself inferior and without a chance with women. The hero always demonstrates strength, agility, balance and great charm.
Bruce Banner, the Incredible Hulk's alter ego, is a very intelligent and emotionally intrigued man. On the opposite side, the Hulk proves to be quite strong and the emotion of rage is essential to his superhero mission. Finally, Clark Kent is always shown to be a weak and shy man. However, when he transforms into Superman he is fearless and very strong! This is how the alter ego of these characters works!
But now, you must be wondering: can we create an alter ego? And the answer to the question is: YES! In fact, many artists are only what they are, because they created an “other me”. Beyoncé considers herself shy and reserved, which is why she created Sasha Fierce to perform her stage performances. According to the singer, nothing she does on stage would normally be done by her.
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The salvation that the alter ego provides
Just like comic book superheroes and some famous ones, this personality strategy works in a positive way for all of them. Of course, we must be aware of who we are and who we must appear to be at times. In our professional life, especially, the alter ego acts as a great savior..
Often, we believe that we are not capable of carrying out certain activities or facing a certain meeting. By creating a differentiated personality compatible with our needs, we can do things the way they should be done. So, looking at it that way, the alter ego is a great savior of situations!
And then, what do you think about it? Do you own or would you create an alter ego? Do you think this alternative is a good idea to save situations that we believe we are not capable of experiencing? Well, as long as it improves some difficult moments in life, this idea can be very good!
