To break a lance for somebody means that you are standing up for that person. It may, however, also point to sexual tension, as well as religious themes (the Grail). Jung saw a connection to the fisher king, who was injured in the groin by a lance, and therefore relates the symbol to physical and emotional suffering. He claimed the task of the hero (Percival) is to address the question of empathy / sympathy in the face of this suffering.If empathy is not expressed, the king and his court will continue to suffer.
According to Freud, as with all other weapons this is a phallic symbol.
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Symbol: The lance—one of the oldest weapons of man—is also a phallic symbol.Vision: Seeing a lance means a fight—instigated by others—is about to break out.
If you are handling a lance: because of your actions, you will be the one to start a fight.
See also: Dagger, Rapier.
Depth Psychology: As a phallic symbol, the lance also refers to sexual appetites.
See also: Weapon.
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