I propose to demonstrate the clinical plausibility of the ‘psychotherapy scene’ of the Bacchae, which is subjected here to a purely psychiatric analysis: all my interpretations and conjectures are based on clinical data and psychiatric theory only. Euripides' objective and rational treatment of the irrational, the accuracy of his descriptions of abnormal behaviour, which are compatible, down to the last detail, with descriptions found in modern psychiatric texts, and his capacity to present not simply a partial list of symptoms, but (...) a coherent clinical picture are taken for granted and will not be discussed further in the present context. The focus of my enquiry is exclusively the psychiatric plausibility of Euripides' description of the psychotherapeutic process.It goes without saying that, since ‘instant cures’ are impossible, Euripides condensed a normally fairly long procedure into a single scene, selectively high-lighting only what would be the crucial moments of a real psychotherapy. His summary of the psychotherapy is as satisfactory as that of a modern psychiatrist. In fact, Euripides' masterly selectivity actually facilitates the understanding of the psychodynamics of Agave's recovery. This enables me to comment on the Euripidean text in exactly the same way as I commented on the verbatim transcript of the psychotherapy of one of my Plains Indian patients. (shrink)

Alkman's Partheneion contains so many obscure details that even the elucidation of a single point seems worth while. It is proposed to show that the Kolaxaian horse, , hitherto identified as the typical Skythian horse,1 is an altogether different breed, specifically associated with Skythian royalty. Context. The Partheneion mentions four breeds: The winged dream horse, the Enetic courser, and, together, the Ibenian and Kolaxaian . Not one of these breeds has, as yet, been definitely identified. All of them are, however, (...) exotic breeds, and this regardless of whether the Enetic is a Venetic or a Paphlagonian steed, the Ibenian a horse of Keltic or of Ionian origin, and the Kolaxaian a Skythian steppe pony or some other Skythian breed. Other exotic elements are Lydian coifs and the Xanthos river. (shrink)

It is proposed to reappraise the nature of Sappho's seizure , to demonstrate that it constitutes proof positive of her lesbianism and to delimit, on the basis of psycho-physiological considerations, the sense any emendation of must have, if it is to match the clinical precision and to fit the rest of the seizure she describes.

Godfrey Devereux clearly explains the theory and practice behind the forms of yoga and includes postures specially created for this book. He presents the history and theory behind yoga, various forms and practices, an exclusive illustrated exercise section, how yoga can help in modern life and yoga and sex.