Interpretation of Dreams

The Interpretation of Dreams by Artemidorus is the only dream-book to have survived from Graeco-Roman times, written in Greek around AD 200. It is a compendium of interpretations of dreams on a wide range of subjects, including the natural, human, and divine worlds, and was an influence on Sigmund Freud and Michel Foucault.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 16 January 2020
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Dreams are the creations of the mind, and they do not originate from any external source. Artemidorus, the author of The Interpretation of Dreams (Oneirocritica), is the most comprehensive and vivid pre-Freudian account of dream interpretation, and the only dream-book that has survived in its entirety from the Graeco-Roman era. Written in Greek around AD 200, during a time when dreams were widely believed to offer glimpses into the future, this work serves as a comprehensive compilation of interpretations of dreams on various subjects, encompassing the natural, human, and divine realms. It includes meanings associated with dreams about the body, sex, eating and drinking, dress, weather, animals, gods, and much more. Artemidorus' approach to dream interpretation emphasizes the importance of understanding the background of the dreamer, including factors such as occupation, health, status, habits, and age. This work offers a fascinating social history, shedding light on ancient life, culture, beliefs, and attitudes toward the dominant power of Imperial Rome. Martin Hammond's masterful translation is accompanied by a lucid introduction and explanatory notes by Peter Thonemann, which assist the reader in comprehending this significant work, which had a profound influence on both Sigmund Freud and Michel Foucault.

Weight: 292g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198797951