Description
Book SynopsisTakes on the traditional view of Greek culture as a triumph of rationalism. Using the analytical tools of modern anthropology and psychology, this title asks, 'Why should we attribute to the ancient Greeks an immunity from 'primitive' modes of thought which we do not find in any society open to our direct observation?'.
Trade Review“Impeccable scholarship. . . . a gracefully written, shimmering work.” * The Atlantic *
"A fascinating journey." * Metapsychology Online Review *
"One of those rare books whose significance does not exhaust itself in its results and conclusions. It teaches us to read Greek literature with a new awareness of things hitherto neglected and quickens our sensitivity." * American Journal of Philology *
"A well-written and beautifully printed volume." * Classical Bulletin *
Table of ContentsI Agamemnon's Apology
II From Shame-Culture to Guilt-Culture
III The Blessings of Madness
IV Dream-Pattern and Culture-Pattern
V The Greek Shamans and the Origin of Puritanism
VI Rationalism and Reaction in the Classical Age
VII Plato, the Irrational Soul, and the Inherited Conglomerate
VIII The Fear of Freedom
Appendix I Maenadism
Appendix II Theurgy
Index
