Inspecting Psychology: How the Rise of Psychological Ideas Influenced the Development of Detective Fiction

Inspecting Psychology explores the interplay between psychology, psychiatry, and detective fiction to provide a unique examination of the history of psychology. It reveals how the psychological movements of the time influenced classic authors, such as Agatha Christie and Arthur Conan Doyle, to reveal an enduring connection between psychology and the human need to solve mysteries. The book also discusses the influence of shell shock in the First World War and the early understanding of mental illness, as well as the growth of psychoanalysis and attachment theory.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 02 November 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Inspecting Psychology delves into the captivating intersection of psychology, psychiatry, and detective fiction, offering a distinctive exploration of the evolution of psychology throughout history. As psychology unfolded over centuries, so did the art of crime writing, revealing an enduring connection between psychology and the human urge to solve mysteries.

A series of intriguing questions arise throughout the book. Why did Agatha Christie frequently portray doctors as killers in her novels? Why did Georges Simenon, known for his prolific detective work, not pursue a career in psychiatry? Did Lord Peter Wimsey, the charismatic protagonist in Dorothy Sayers' novels, possess all the charm, passion, and tenderness that a lover could offer?

The book begins its journey by tracing the earliest roots of psychology in Greek literature, alongside the Oedipal story and the philosophical ideas of Aristotle. It then traverses through the late 18th and 19th centuries, focusing on Edgar Allan Poe, considered the father of detective fiction, who penned the first detective story proper. As modern psychology emerged in the late 19th century, coinciding with the growing fascination with understanding behavior, the whodunnit genre gained popularity. Readers are taken on a thrilling journey through the development of psychology in the 20th century and beyond, exploring the impact of World War I's shell shock, the early understanding of mental illness, the rise of psychoanalysis, behaviorism, and attachment theory.

At each historical juncture, David Cohen unveils the profound influence these psychological movements had on crime writers and their characters and plots. The result is a captivating and engaging read for those intrigued by the unique fusion of psychology and detective fiction, shedding light on the enduring connections between the two fields and the rich tapestry of literary creations they have inspired.

Weight: 222g
Dimension: 216 x 139 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367362188