Groundbreaking in its application of psychoanalytic methods to mythology, this monograph explores hero birth narratives across various cultures, including Greek, Roman, Judeo-Christian, Indian, and Germanic legends. Otto Rank, an influential figure in psychology and a contemporary of Freud, employs classic Freudian concepts to analyze these stories. The book's middle section, rich with diverse and sometimes obscure sources, serves as a valuable resource for modern readers. Its impact on later writers, notably Joseph Campbell, underscores its significance in the study of mythology.
