Exploring Guilt, Trauma, and Redemption : A Psychoanalytic study of Silent Hill 2’s dialogue and monologue

Baihaqi, Zulfan Rafly and Syarifudin, Bunyamin Faisal and Nurulaen, Yuyun (2025) Exploring Guilt, Trauma, and Redemption : A Psychoanalytic study of Silent Hill 2’s dialogue and monologue. English Language In Focus (ELIF), 7 (2). pp. 111-120. ISSN 2662-3597

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Abstract

Video games have evolved into a powerful medium for exploring complex psychological themes, and Silent Hill 2 is a prime example of this. This study analyzes the game, which is renowned for its deep narrative centered on guilt, trauma, and redemption. By applying Freud’s psychoanalytic theory, this research examines how James Sunderland’s dialogues and monologues convey his psychological conflicts and his journey toward redemption. The findings indicate that James’s denial is evident in his refusal to accept Mary’s death, while projection and repression are reflected in his interactions with characters like Angela and Maria. These defense mechanisms illustrate his internal struggle with guilt and trauma, and they are further reinforced by the symbolic use of the game’s environment and monsters, which externalize James’s unconscious conflicts. Ultimately, this study affirms Silent Hill 2 as a narrative masterpiece, emphasizing the potential of video games as a medium for complex psychological storytelling. Furthermore, this research contributes to interdisciplinary discussions in psychoanalysis, literary studies, and media studies, underscoring the importance of interactive narratives in engaging with profound psychological themes.

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