Visualizing And Identifying The Othered MonstersWithin The Self

This thesis argues that the emergence of monstrosity is the blurred boundary betweenself and other and animation is uniquely capable of expressing it. Drawing ontheories of the uncanny, abjection, the shadow self, and projection, it explores howanimated transformations visualize both internal psychological conflict and externalthreats. This thesis explores the emergence and function of monsters through theconceptual lens of the self and the other, emphasizing the role of projection from theself onto the other, with the objective of informing and enhancing monster designin visual media. Furthermore, it highlights how animation’s unique capabilities canserve as a medium for integrating these internal aspects rather than merely rejectingthem. By integrating insights from psychology, philosophy, and evolutionary theory,the study emphasizes that effective monster design requires acknowledging the otherwithin the self. The history of visual representations of monstrosity within paintingsand film is also analyzed to gain insights into the portrayal and perception ofotherness. These insights are then applied to an original animated motion graphicsfilm, Phantasmagoria (2025), where the established theoretical principles inform thedesign of monstrous characters.