The Oedipus Complex Definition: The attachment of the child to the parent of the opposite sex, accompanied by envious and aggressive feelings toward the parent of the same sex. These feelings are repressed (ie. made unconscious) because of the fear of displeasure or punishment by the parent of the same sex.

Origins The idea of the Oedipus Complex is derived from Sophocles' Oedipus Tyrannus, during which Oedipus learned that he was cursed to kill his father and sleep with his mother.

Freud’s Psychoanalytic Theories Freud claimed that this psychological condition is universal. He characterized it as loving and hostile wishes that children experienced toward their parents.

Freud’s Psychoanalytic Theories After puberty, the resolution of the complex happens through the choice of a suitable substitute for the object of love.  However, the Oedipus complex continues to be an unconscious organizer throughout life.  It also forms an permanent link between desire and rules. 

Connection to Hamlet Claudius' marriage to Gertrude filled Hamlet with rage.  He despised his mother for their marriage. It is evident that Hamlet was obsessed with his mother's sexuality.  He often mentioned Claudius' sexual actions towards Gertrude. Hamlet is a literary example of a boy that never overcame his Oedipus complex.

Adapted From: Dolloff, Lauren. "Oedipus Complex." The University of Vermont. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Mar. 2012. <http://www.uvm.edu/~jbailly/ courses/tragedy/student%20second%20documents/Oedipus%20Complex.html>.