This episode in Canto IV opens an insight into the unconscious mind of Belinda, following the loss of her "lock". The episode gives a clear yet somewhat complicated view of the state of Belinda's unconscious. Pope thus presents the issues, which were later put forward by Freud, concerning the role and importance of the unconscious. Therefore, using a Freudian theoretical framework, one can explore the role Pope may have intended for this episode, or indeed the role, which can now be interpreted.
Umbriel's journey to the "Cave of Spleen" echoes the translation of the "Anead", were Pope writes "But anxious cares", it is followed by Dryden with "...already seized the queen / she fed within her veins a flame unseen". This is the point where Dido is in love with Aeneas. This is thus perhaps a point of Belinda's growing affection for the Baron. …
