The Function of Mentally Troubled Persons in Zülfü Livaneli’s Novels

The characters with psychological issues in Zülfü Livaneli\\\'s novels can be categorized into two groups: positive and negative. The positive characters exhibit discourse and behaviors that support truth. In doing so, they break away from the feudal and patriarchal ways of life that rational individuals dare not criticize. These positive characters voice the truth where others remain silent. Some of their statements oscillate between madness and wisdom. Through these characters, the author finds the opportunity to critique society, using individuals who, despite their psychological disorders, demonstrate positive behaviors. On the other hand, the negative characters with psychological issues in Livaneli\\\'s novels are those who harm themselves or others. Those who harm their bodies believe that they no longer have any expectations from life. They commit suicide because they find life meaningless. Those who harm others are individuals who have not been able to overcome childhood trauma or have become obsessed with love. In both negative cases, they leave behind great pain. Through these characters, the author refers to certain societal topics that are commonly agreed upon. This article will examine the functions of positive and negative psychologically troubled characters in Livaneli\\\'s novels.