A Case of Hysteria: (Dora)

by Sigmund Freud

translated by Anthea Bell

 

A new translation of one of Freud's most important and intriguing texts, A Case of Hysteria-- popularly known as the "Dora Case"--affords rare insight into how Freud dealt with patients and interpreted what they told him. As the 18-year-old "Dora" underwent psychoanalysis, Freud uncovered a remarkably unhappy and conflict-ridden family, with several competing versions of their story, and his account of "Dora's" emotional travails is as gripping as a modern novel. The narrative became a crucial text in the evolution of his theories, combining his studies on hysteria and his new theory of dream-interpretation with early insights into the development of sexuality.

 

This landmark work is freshly translated by Britain's leading translator of German literature, Anthea Bell, while leading authority Ritchie Robertson provides a fascinating introduction which sets the work in its biographical, historical, and intellectual context. Robertson sheds light in particular on the unwitting preconceptions and prejudices with which Freud approached his patient, highlighting both his own blindness and the broader attitudes of turn-of-the-century Viennese society. The book also features explanatory notes that highlight the literary and critical allusions that Freud worked into his text, plus an up-to-date bibliography that helps the reader to explore the topic further.