Amor and Psyche: The Psychic Development of the Feminine: A Commentary on the Tale by Apuleius

By Erich Neumann

Book Overview

A mythic journey of psychological transformation and the development of the self

The renowned tale of Amor and Psyche, from Apuleius's second-century Latin novel The Golden Ass, is one of the most charming fragments of classical literature. In this landmark book, Erich Neumann reveals how this timeless story is an exemplar of feminine psychology. Unfolding the spiritual and mythical background of the pagan narrative, he shows how the contest between the mortal maid Psyche and the great goddess Aphrodite over the god Amor--Aphrodite's son, Psyche's husband--yields surprising and valuable insights into the psychic life of women. A classic work by one of the most brilliant figures of the twentieth century, Amor and Psyche offers a profound meditation on the tensions between the conscious and unconscious, the feminine and the masculine, and the known and unknown.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0691279284
• ISBN13: 9780691279282
• Release Date: January 2026
• Publisher: Princeton University Press
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.5" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Skinny Book, Hefty Reading

Discovering the psychology in mythology is an interesting quest. Neumann has written quite a few books on the subject and this is one with an emphasis on the feminine principle. Neumann traces the development of Psyche from her state of unconciousness, to growing need for conciousness, to becoming an active participant taking real action. I also recommend reading "Origins and History of Conciousness" first.

A new way of learning

This book helps us understand your inner-self. You learn a lot about how you really are and learn how to control new abilities. I would give this book to any women who wants to get in touch with a secret part of their mind. You also learn about history and this helps you to adapt what you've learned in your present life.