Spellbound

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The exploration of animal magnetism reveals its significant influence on European and American intellectuals, as Mesmer sought to restore harmony between humanity and nature through magnetic fluids. His insights into the hypnotic trance and the concept of a second self paved the way for understanding the unconscious. Maria Tatar's work uniquely examines how mesmerism shaped literature, diverging from traditional scientific or medical analyses, and highlighting its cultural impact on literary thought and creativity.