### Character of Berenger in *Rhinoceros*

In Eugène Ionesco’s play *Rhinoceros*, Berenger stands out as

the central character, embodying the everyman amidst the
surreal and chaotic events that unfold. As the play progresses,
Berenger transitions from a lackluster, apathetic individual to the
sole defender of individuality and humanity. This transformation
highlights several key aspects of his character:

#### **Initial Presentation**

At the beginning of the play, Berenger is portrayed as a
disheveled, indifferent, and somewhat apathetic figure. He is
often late to work, drinks excessively, and seems disengaged
from societal norms and responsibilities. His appearance and
behavior starkly contrast with his friend Jean, who is punctual,
well-dressed, and adheres strictly to societal expectations. This
dichotomy sets the stage for the unfolding drama, positioning
Berenger as an outsider in his own world.

#### **Transformation and Isolation**

As the inhabitants of the town begin to transform into
rhinoceroses, a symbol of conformity and the spread of
totalitarian ideologies, Berenger’s character begins to evolve.
Despite his initial indifference, he becomes increasingly
disturbed by the transformations around him. Unlike his peers,
who readily succumb to the metamorphosis, Berenger resists.
This resistance highlights a deep-seated moral integrity and an
innate sense of individuality.

Berenger’s transformation is not just a resistance to the physical

change but a stand against the ideological conformity that the
rhinoceroses represent. His initial lack of direction gives way to a
determined resolve to maintain his humanity. He refuses to
conform, even as his friends, colleagues, and love interest, Daisy,
succumb to the collective transformation.

#### **Symbol of Humanity and Individuality**

As the last human in a world overtaken by rhinoceroses,
Berenger symbolizes the struggle for individuality and human
integrity. His isolation becomes a powerful statement against the
collective unconscious that drives the other characters towards
conformity. Despite feeling hopeless and contemplating
surrender, he ultimately declares, “I will not capitulate!” This
declaration underscores his commitment to preserving his
humanity in the face of overwhelming pressure to conform.
#### **Connection to the Collective Unconscious**
The concept of the collective unconscious, introduced by Carl
Jung, refers to the part of the unconscious mind that is shared
among beings of the same species. It consists of archetypes and
universal symbols that shape human experiences and behaviors.
In *Rhinoceros*, the transformation of the townspeople into
rhinoceroses can be seen as a manifestation of the collective
unconscious.

The rhinoceroses symbolize the latent tendencies within the

collective unconscious towards conformity, authoritarianism, and
the abandonment of individual responsibility. The spread of the
transformation represents the power of these unconscious
drives to overtake rational thought and individuality. Berenger’s
resistance can thus be interpreted as a struggle against these
deep-seated unconscious forces.

#### **Berenger as the Conscious Individual**

While the other characters in *Rhinoceros* are subsumed by the
collective unconscious, Berenger represents the conscious
individual who resists these forces. His journey is a struggle to
maintain his identity and humanity against the encroaching tide
of the collective unconscious. This struggle is emblematic of
Ionesco’s broader critique of totalitarianism and mass
movements that suppress individual thought and moral integrity.

#### **Conclusion**
In summary, Berenger’s character in *Rhinoceros* evolves from
an apathetic everyman to a symbol of resistance against
conformity and the collective unconscious. His journey
underscores the importance of individuality and moral integrity
in the face of overwhelming social pressure. Through Berenger,
Ionesco highlights the existential struggle to maintain one’s
humanity and identity in a world increasingly dominated by
irrational and unconscious drives.

Berenger's steadfast refusal to conform, despite immense

pressure, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of
individual thought and resistance in maintaining the essence of
humanity. His character is a beacon of hope and a call to resist
the dehumanizing forces of the collective unconscious that seek
to erase individuality and critical thought.