Maternal Subjectivity: A Dissociated Self-State

Ellen Toronto's book explores the dissociation of maternal subjectivity from human experience and provides a psychoanalytic exploration of the (non-)history of motherhood to understand and appreciate maternal worlds. It reveals the existential trauma of the absent presence of the mother and argues that by revealing this dissociation, we can excavate the stories of individual mothers and realize the burdens they carry belong to us all.

Format: Hardback
Length: 150 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In her groundbreaking book, Ellen Toronto delves into the profound dissociation between maternal subjectivity and human experience, embarking on a psychoanalytic exploration of the (non-)history of motherhood. This insightful work aims to unravel the complexities of maternal worlds and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of these often-overlooked realms.

The prevailing patriarchal order recognizes the mother's existence primarily as a vessel for childbirth and childbearing, while her role in the service of the species remains essential. However, the absence of the mother as an individual subject and the collective ignorance surrounding her experiences have inflicted an existential trauma, a trauma of non-existence. It is only by unveiling this dissociation that Toronto suggests we can embark on a journey to excavate the stories of individual mothers, as they have borne and raised the children of the world. Through this exploration, we come to realize that the burdens these mothers carry are not solely their own but also ours as a collective.

This comprehensive account of the maternal perspective, drawing from a diverse range of sources such as historical research, mythological narratives, and clinical case material, holds immense significance for students of psychoanalysis, feminism, history, as well as psychoanalysts in training and practice. It offers a rich tapestry of insights that will deepen their understanding of maternal being and contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032537955