Work

The menagerie of Berggasse 19: An animal studies rereading of Freud’s classic case studies

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This article explores Freud’s original engagement with animal symbols, characters, and stories in his case studies “Little Hans,” “The Rat Man,” and “The Wolf Man.” Employing insights from animal studies, the article examines Freud’s views on the human-animal continuum as well as the phenomena of anthropomorphism and zoomorphism, via which human characteristics are affixed to animals and animal characteristics to humans. Also examined is the symbolism surrounding the animals appearing in the fairy tales referenced by Freud’s patients, including “Little Red Riding Hood.” We end by considering the contributions that Freud can make to the expanding field of animal studies.

Source: Psychoanalysis Culture & Society

DOI: 10.1057/s41282-025-00522-3

Authors: Samuel Weeks, Beatrice Barjon

Institution: Thomas Jefferson University

Language: English

Topic: Psychoanalysis and Social Critique

Subfield: Cultural Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,690

Funder: Thomas Jefferson University