The theme of Castration is consistent throughout Vertigo in regards to Scottie. In the opening sequence Scottie's masculinity is removed when he causes the death of a police officer on top of the roof. Because of that, he develops Vertigo which further castrates him. In regards to psycho-analysis, the removal of Scottie's masculinity disables him and he is unable to perform male oriented tasks. The castration also forces him to adopt a feminine role in which Midge adopts the male role. This is emphasised in the the scene in Midge's apartment. Scottie is complaining about his corset, unable to do work and Midge is hard at work. Also when Scottie faints, Midge is the one to catch him.
Motif: Phallic Imagery
Phallic imagery is consistent in Vertigo as it emphasises Scottie's castration anxiety. It is first introduced when Scottie goes to visit Gavin in his office as there are lots of cranes in the background. The phallic imagery is used to reinforce Scottie's feminine role within the narrative as Gavin is presented as hyper masculine. Phallic imagery is also used in regards to the bell tower as Scottie's physically can't get up to save Madeleine.
Symbol: Yellow
The colour yellow is utilised often in Vertigo.
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