In this book, originally published in 1963, Dr Fine sets out to describe what Freud said, and to re-evaluate his views critically in the light of the best knowledge of the time.

Freud's numerous changes of view, his constant searching for the truth wherever it might lead him, as well as his resolute adherence to certain hard-won positions once he had achieved them, are all skilfully traced. Freud's intellectual Odyssey is divided into four periods. From 1886 to 1895 he was a neurologist investigating hysteria and other 'nervous' disorders. Then came his self-analysis, from 1896 to...