“The myth of Oedipus . . . arouses powerful intellectual and emotional reactions in the adult-so much so, that it may provide a cathartic experience, as Aristotle taught all tragedy does. [A reader] may wonder why he is so deeply moved; and in responding to what he observes as his emotional reaction, ruminating about the mythical events and what these mean to him, a person may come to clarify his thoughts and feelings. With this, certain inner tensions which are the consequence of events long past may be relieved; previously unconscious material can then enter one's awareness and become accessible for conscious working through. This can happen if the observer is deeply moved emotionally by the myth, and at the sametime strongly motivated intellectually to understand it.”
Quote by Bruno Bettelheim
Work
This book delves into the origins, themes, and psychological effects of fairy tales, examining their role in shaping human thought and behavior. It offers an in-depth analysis of the narrative structures and motifs found in fairy tales, providing insights into their enduring appeal and relevance. more
Author
Bruno Bettelheim was a renowned psychologist, born on August 28, 1903, and died on March 13, 1990. He is known for his deep research in child psychology, dream analysis, and parent-child relationships. more
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