Sigmund Freud, an Austrian psychiatrist and founder of psychoanalysis, not only changed our understanding of the human psyche, but was also a great connoisseur of literature. In his letters, he often mentioned his favorite books and recommended those he thought were worth reading.
Content“Paradise Lost”, John Milton”The Jungle Book”, Rudyard Kipling”David Copperfield”, Charles DickensPoetry of Heinrich HeineCollection of short stories by Mark Twain
Literature was a source of inspiration for Freud, as well as a means of expanding his worldview. Based on his notes and personal correspondence, it is possible to compile a list of the works that most impressed the psychiatrist. Today WomanEL tells what books Freud read.
What books inspired Sigmund Freud?.. Source: pinterest.com
“Paradise Lost”, John Milton
Milton's epic poem about the struggle between good and evil, the fall of Lucifer, and the expulsion of Adam and Eve was one of Freud's favorite books. The theme of internal conflicts reflected in the work deeply resonated with his ideas about the unconscious and the struggle of human desires with moral constraints.
The Jungle Book, Rudyard Kipling
The stories about Mowgli and his life among animals opened up new aspects of human interaction with nature for Freud. He saw them as an allegory of the development of personality in environmental conditions, which was in harmony with his studies of the formation of the human “I”.
“David Copperfield”, Charles Dickens
This semi-autobiographical novel about growing up and becoming a person deeply impressed Freud. He admired the way Dickens reveals the emotional world of the characters and their relationships. For Freud, it was an example of a sophisticated analysis of human experiences.
Poetry of Heinrich Heine
The German Romantic poet Heinrich Heine was a source of aesthetic pleasure and deep reflection for Freud. His melancholic lyrics, full of irony and a search for truth, resonated with the psychological themes that Freud explored in his practice.
A collection of Mark Twain's short stories
The American writer won Freud over with his satire, sharp wit and insightful understanding of human nature. His works helped to consider the human psyche through the prism of humor and social interactions.
Literature for Sigmund Freud was not only a means of entertainment, but also an important tool for understanding the complexities of the human soul. His fascination with these works reveals to us a new Freud – an attentive reader, able to feel and appreciate the beauty of the word.
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