60 pages • 2 hours read
Man and His Symbols
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Book Brief
415
Book • Nonfiction
1960s
1964
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Man and His Symbols by C.G. Jung and co-authors delves into the depths of the unconscious mind through essays on archetypes and dream analysis. Jung introduces the core concepts, emphasizing dreams' role in connecting with repressed aspects of the psyche. Henderson explores archetypes in myths, von Franz elaborates on individuation, Jaffé investigates archetypes in visual arts, and Jacobi presents a case study illustrating these theories.
Informative
Mysterious
Contemplative
Inspirational
Fantastical
Reviews & Readership
33,746 ratings
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Review Roundup
C. G. Jung's Man and His Symbols is widely praised for making Jungian concepts accessible to the general reader, with engaging visuals and lucid explanations. However, some critics find its depth lacking for more advanced scholars and note occasional disjointed transitions. Overall, it is celebrated as an enlightening introduction to Jung's ideas on symbolism and the unconscious.
Who Should Read Man and His Symbols?
Readers who enjoy Man and His Symbols by C. G. Jung are typically fascinated by psychology, symbolism, and dreams. They might also appreciate works such as Joseph Campbell's The Hero with a Thousand Faces and James Hillman's The Soul’s Code for their exploration of myth and the human psyche.
33,746 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Joseph L. Henderson
Joseph L. Henderson
An American physician and Jungian psychologist, he wrote the second section, exploring archetypes and their presence in dreams as part of the individuation process.
Marie-Louise von Franz
Marie-Louise von Franz
A Swiss Jungian psychologist, she authored the section on the process of individuation, illustrating it through stories, myths, and historical parallels.
Aniela Jaffé
Aniela Jaffé
A German analyst and co-writer with Jung, she focused her section on the influence of Jungian theories in the visual arts and the parallels between art and the unconscious.
Jolande Jacobi
Jolande Jacobi
A Hungarian psychologist, her section offers a detailed case study of dream analysis, illustrating the application of Jung's principles through a single patient's experiences.
John Freeman
John Freeman
A British public figure, he provided the book's introduction, having inspired Jung to compile his theories for a general audience after an influential interview.
Sigmund Freud
Sigmund Freud
An Austrian founder of psychoanalysis, mentioned within the work for his foundational influence on Jung, highlighting their theoretical divergences.
415
Book • Nonfiction
1960s
1964
Adult
18+ years
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