Diagnosing Literary Genius: A Cultural History of Psychiatry in Russia, 1880-1930

This Book excerpt examines the complex interplay between Russian literature and psychiatry from the 19th and early 20th centuries. It explores how psychiatrists used literary characters to illustrate psychiatric concepts and, conversely, how literary works influenced psychiatric diagnoses and theories. The text analyzes the cases of prominent Russian authors like Gogol, Dostoevsky, and Tolstoy, showing how their lives and works were interpreted through the lens of contemporary psychiatric thought, including debates surrounding degeneration and the concept of "progeneration." Furthermore, the excerpt investigates the socio-political context influencing these interpretations, revealing how psychiatric views often reflected prevailing political ideologies. Finally, the text discusses the development of psychotherapy and mental hygiene in Russia, noting the impact of figures like Tolstoy and the challenges faced by the field during the tumultuous years of revolution. You can listen and download our episodes for free on more than 10 different platforms: https://linktr.ee/book_shelter Get the Book now from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Diagnosing-Literary-Genius-Psychiatry-1880-1930-ebook/dp/B07DFPDS6G?&linkCode=ll1&tag=cvthunderx-20&linkId=8a9b89fc50be8c7311d84fdbe38821a4&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl Produced by: https://www.podcaistudio.com/