In 'The Origins and History of Consciousness,' Erich Neumann explores the evolution of human consciousness from ancient times to modernity. He delves into the interplay between individual psychology and cultural development, revealing how archetypes shape our understanding of self and society. Neumann argues that consciousness is a dynamic process influenced by myth and symbols, bridging the inner and outer worlds. His work challenges readers to reconsider the roots of human thought and the collective psyche. Prepare for a profound journey that intertwines psychology, mythology, and philosophy, sparking intrigue about the very nature of consciousness.
By Erich Neumann
Published: 2014
"The journey of consciousness is the path of individuation, where the self emerges from the collective shadow, illuminating the intricacies of existence."
The Origins and History of Consciousness draws on a full range of world mythology to show how individual consciousness undergoes the same archetypal stages of development as human consciousness as a whole. Erich Neumann was one of C. G. Jung's most creative students and a renowned practitioner of analytical psychology in his own right. In this influential book, Neumann shows how the stages begin and end with the symbol of the Uroboros, the tail-eating serpent. The intermediate stages are projected in the universal myths of the World Creation, Great Mother, Separation of the World Parents, Birth of the Hero, Slaying of the Dragon, Rescue of the Captive, and Transformation and Deification of the Hero. Throughout the sequence, the Hero is the evolving ego consciousness. Featuring a foreword by Jung, this Princeton Classics edition introduces a new generation of readers to this eloquent and enduring work.
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“The journey of consciousness is the path of individuation, where the self emerges from the collective shadow, illuminating the intricacies of existence.”
The Origins and History of Consciousness
By Erich Neumann
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Erich Neumann (1905-1960) was a prominent German-born psychologist and writer, best known for his influential works on depth psychology, particularly his exploration of the feminine psyche in relation to Jungian theory. He held a significant role in the development of analytical psychology and became renowned for his books such as 'The Origins and History of Consciousness,' 'The Great Mother: An Analysis of the Archetype,' and 'The Fear of the Feminine.' Neumann's writing style is characterized by a blend of psychological insights, mythological references, and philosophical discourse, creating a rich tapestry that delves deep into the human experience. His work continues to inspire psychologists, scholars, and readers interested in the intersections of psychology, mythology, and spirituality.
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