This 4 volume set, originally published between 1969 and 1970, traces the basic psychoanalytic concepts evolved by Freud. Each volume takes a single theme in Freud's thought and gives a concise but exhaustive account of the historical development of the concepts relating to it. Whenever there is any change in formulation or amplification, the change and Freud's reasons for it are clearly noted.

It is generally accepted that among Freud's many contributions to the understanding of the normal and abnormal aspects of mental functioning, 'The Interpretation of Dreams' stands alone and above all others. In this work published in 1900 Freud laid down the foundations of psychoanalytic theory as it was to develop throughout this century. This work not only unravelled the significance of the process of dreaming and allowed for the scientific understanding of the true meaning and nature of the mysterious world of dreams, but created the basis for a general theory of personality capable of...

This volume describes in condensed but detailed form Freud's development of the theory of instincts. As is well known, Freud reformulated and amplified his theory of instincts at several points during his lifetime. Such periodical amplifications and reformulations were made necessary by a number of factors, for as Freud gained experience he not only developed fresh insights but also was faced with the problem of explaining an increasing amount of clinical phenomena that offered itself for examination under the psychoanalytic microscope.

17 subjects were selected on the basis of their relevance for the understanding both of psychoanalytic theory and of human behaviour in general. In this volume the reader can follow the development of Freud's theories regarding important subjects such as fixation, regression, cathexis, conflicts, anxiety, ambivalence, reality testing, transference and counter-transference.

The libido theory is one of the major areas of interest in psychoanalysis. Freud's insights in this field have been widely applied and used by psychoanalysts, adult and child psychiatrists, psychologists, educationalists, experts on child development and social workers. They have thrown light on the normal and abnormal aspects of sexual development from childhood to adulthood and on the role played by sexual development in neurotic disturbances. Further they have made possible an understanding of the complex field of sexual perversions.