The Origin of the Gods - A Psychoanalytical Study of Greek Theogonic Myth

Zusatztext A superb application of classical Freudian theory to the key Greek myths. Incisive, balanced, pellucid. Highly recommended. Klappentext This innovative study posits that myths in general, and Greek theogonic myth in particular, have a latent meaning that is responsible both for the emotional energy inherent in myths, and for the special attraction they have even to those who no longer believe in their literal meaning. Caldwelldescribes, in clear and comprehensible language, aspects of psychoanalytic theory relevant to the understanding of Greek myth, implementing a psychoanalytic methodology to interpret the Greek myth of origin and succession, particularly as stated in Hesiod's Theogony. In reassessing this work, whichtells the story of the world's beginning from unbounded Chaos to the defeat of the Titans, Caldwell addresses several unexplained problems-- why does the world begin with the spontaneous emergence of four uncaused entities, and why in this particular order? Why does Ouranos prevent his childrenfrom being born by confining them in their mother's body? Why is Ouranos castrated by his son, and why is Aphrodite born from the severed genitals? Why is it always the youngest son who overthrows his father, the sky-god, and what is the logic of the steps taken by Zeus to prevent the same thinghappening to him? Presenting a new definition and analyses of the psychological functions in myth, this new study should appeal to a wide range of classicists, teachers and students of mythology, and those interested in the application of psychoanalytic methods to literature. Zusammenfassung After describing those aspects of psychoanalytic theory that are relevant to the understanding of Greek myth, this study interprets, using psychoanalytical methodology, the Greek myth of origin and succession, particularly as stated in Hesiod's "Theogony".

Product details

• Authors: Richard Caldwell, Richard S. Caldwell, Caldwell Richard
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 11.03.1993
• EAN: 9780195072662
• ISBN: 978-0-19-507266-2
• No. of pages: 224
• Dimensions: 142 mm x 219 mm x 14 mm
• Series: Print on Demand
• Subjects: Education and learning > Teaching preparation > Vocational needs; Social sciences, law, business > Social sciences (general); SOCIAL SCIENCE / Folklore & Mythology, Ancient Greece, RELIGION / Ancient, RELIGION / Psychology of Religion, Folklore, myths & legends, Psychoanalytical and Freudian psychology, Ancient religions & mythologies, Psychoanalytical theory (Freudian psychology), Ancient religions and Mythologies, PSYCHOLOGY / Psychotherapy / Psychoanalysis, Folklore studies / Study of myth