Hey y’all! Kicking off this community with some of my favorite Jungian books not written by Jung himself.

The Mystery of the Coniunctio, by Edinger: I’ve found Psychology and Alchemy quite a difficult read, and this book does an excellent job distilling alchemical concepts (via a focus on the Rosarium pictures) through the lens of Jung. I love the alchemical images included as visual references to the concepts.

Anatomy of the Psyche, by Edinger: Like unfolding another layer from the previous entry, this book focuses on the 7 alchemical principles and how it relates to the anatomy of the psyche. I found the abundance of mythological/historical references to be helpful in my journey.

Inner Work, by Johnson: This practical book was very effective in helping me ground my dream work and consider the flexibility and creativity that can accompany “active imagination”. This book helped me find breadcrumbs on my own path towards effective methods of inner work.

The Principle of Individuation, by Stein: Currently making my way through this one, as recommended by my therapist. Many of the mythological and fairy tale references feel relevant to my own path.

  • RealismWelcome@lemmy.worldEnglish
    2·
    1 year ago

    Thanks for the overview, I haven’t read any of these books so far. My favourite Jungian author is Marie-Louise von Franz; her books are worth reading especially if you’re interested in symbolism, myths and fairy tales. She also discusses the individuation process in her writing and has published a book about the archetype of the puer aeternus.

    • polyrhythm@lemmy.worldOPMEnglish
      2·
      1 year ago

      Appreciate the suggestion. The only Marie-Louise von Franz piece I’ve read so far is ‘The Cat.’ What von Franz books would you recommend I start with?

      • RealismWelcome@lemmy.worldEnglish
        2·
        1 year ago

        I’m afraid this reply is not going to help you much when it comes to making a decision … 😊 But I really think it depends completely on what topic you want to get into right now. She has written books on a variety of topics, and as her style is very clear and down-to-earth (compared to Jung), any of her books is accessible, no matter where you start.