Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Sigmund Freud (1856-1939) revolutionized the way in which we think about ourselves. From its beginnings as a theory of neurosis, Freud developed psycho-analysis into a general psychology which became widely accepted as the predominant mode of discussing personality and interpersonal relationships.

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

Storr's concise overview of Freud's psychoanalytic theory is invaluable to the novice approaching Freud's works for the first time. The author provides the historical background necessary for an understanding of psychoanalytic theory, including biographical information about Freud; a survey of the basic concepts of psychoanalysis; and an evaluation of these concepts in the light of contemporary scientific research. Readers already acquainted with the history and concepts of psychoanalysis will still find the review of contemporary research valuable. As an evaluation of Freud's theory, Storr's book is concise and up-to-date. A more thorough but dated evaluation is available in Seymour Fisher and Roger P. Greenberg's The Scientific Credibility of Freud's Theories and Therapy (CH, Nov '77). Readers well acquainted with Freud's works may disagree with Storr on several points of interpretation and on the way in which he synthesizes works from different periods. However, different interpretations of Freud's works are to be expected and this does not diminish the book's value. An important addition to any library collection. Public and academic collections, community college through graduate. F. Smolucha Moraine Valley Community College

Author notes provided by Syndetics

Charles Anthony Storr, May 18, 1920 - March 17, 2001 Charles Anthony Storr was born on May 18, 1920 in London to a Reverend of Westminster Abbey and his wife. The two were first cousins, which may have lead to his poor health and depression. At the age of eight, he attended public school at Winchester and was very unhappy. He graduated from Winchester College and proceeded to Christ's Church in Cambridge where he met C. P. Snow who encouraged him to be moral and compassionate. Storr continued his medical studies at Westminster Hospital from 1941 to 1944, and then became a house physician at various hospitals. He is best known for his books on Freud and Jung.

After completing his education, Storr practiced psychotherapy privately, but combined his private practice with hospitals as a consultant. In 1974, he retired from private practice to teach post graduate doctors at Oxford where he received dining rights at Wadham College and became a fellow at Green College. After his first attempt at writing proved fruitful, Storr continued his career as a writer, producing 11 books in the next 26 years.

Storr's books were very popular in the U. S. and following his literary fame, he became a frequent book reviewer and commentator on British television. He wrote on different themes, but his favorites were gurus, as evidenced in his book, "Feet of Clay, solitude as a helpful tool in recovery, "Solitude: A Return to Self", and the theories of Freud and Jung.

Storr died on March 17 in Oxford after having a heart attack during a speech at Wadham College. He was 80 years old.