Jean versus Berenger: Narcissism and Hypocrisy in Rhinoceros Aiswarya Roy College

Within the relationship between Jean and Berenger in Rhinoceros, Berenger’s passivity and Jean’s narcissism become apparent. It is clear from the play that Jean is abusive and Berenger is submissive to him, making their friendship toxic. The dynamic between the two of them as manipulator and manipulated can be representative of fascist individuals and the blind masses that submit to them. Keywords: Narcissism, Passivity, Fascism, Hypocrisy. In rigidly viewing Ionesco’s Rhinoceros as an anti-fascist play, it is easy to overlook a significant part of Jean’s character – his raging narcissism. This flaw in his character is evident from the way he treats his friend Berenger. While Jean is hypocritical, hurtful and even manipulative, Berenger’s passivity leads him to turn the other cheek. This unbalanced dynamic between the manipulator and the manipulated forms an important part of the structure of dialogue and discourse in Rhinoceros.

The first scene of the play takes place in a cafe where Berenger is meeting Jean. Even before they have properly greeted each other, Jean scolds Berenger for being late, ignoring the fact that he himself had just arrived. Such blatant disrespect to his dear friend right at the beginning alerts the...