« Io ho vissuto ». Desiderio, solitudine e abbandono nel Teseo di Gide

Abstract

This article offers an analysis of André Gide’s Thésée, focusing on the themes of desire, abandonment, and solitude as they unfold within the myth of the labyrinth. The analysis intertwines philosophical and literary reflection with the mythical narrative, conceptualizing the labyrinth not merely as a physical space but as a psychological state. Central to this reading is the figure of Ariadne, depicted as both savior and predator, whose relationship with Theseus highlights the dual nature of desire as both liberating and confining. The article argues that the transformative power of this desire leads Theseus to abandon Ariadne for Phaedra, a pivotal act that reveals deeper existential themes of solitude and an inherent void within human experience. Through an examination of key motifs and imagery, the essay illuminates how Gide’s narrative subverts traditional interpretations of the myth, presenting instead a nuanced exploration of identity, relational dynamics, and the labyrin­ thine nature of desire itself. The conclusion underscores Theseus’s profound iso- lation, positing his journey not merely as a physical quest but as a poignant reflection on the human condition.