Symbolism of Mirrors as the First Step of Individuation and Self-Awareness

Abstract

This study analyzed the symbolic meanings of mirrors from the viewpoint of analytical psychology. This paper describes various symbolisms of mirrors that appear in eastern and western myths, fairy tales and other literature, and hence analyzes their symbolic meanings in sandplay therapy. Mirrors are significant objects that have existed throughout the history of mankind. In ancient East, mirrors were regarded as sacred objects having magical powers. They also symbolize water, in that they reflect the world and self, or the enlightened psyche. At the same time, however, they sometimes symbolize arrogance and vanity. Mirrors trigger self-awareness. Looking into our own unconscious enables us to become aware of the shadow and the persona, bring them to consciousness, and advance toward individuation. In other words, mirrors are closely related to human self-awareness and the following psychological and emotional elements, the concept of which is related to concept of individuation in analytical psychology.