Parsing Through Customs: Essays by a Freudian Folklorist

The book explores the intersection of psychoanalysis and folklore, showcasing how folklore methodologies can enhance the understanding of psychoanalytic theory. Alan Dundes employs symbolic analysis to examine various cultural elements, including children's games, folktales, everyday language, and rituals surrounding childbirth. This unique approach highlights the significance of ordinary imagination in both disciplines, offering insights into cultural metaphors related to power and prestige.