THE PASSION OF PERPETUA: A Psychological Interpretation of Her Visions by Marie-Louise von Franz – Title 110

This book started life as an academic study for a seminar with C.G. Jung. It was first published in English translation in 1949, then published in German in 1951 as a supplement to Jung’s volume Aion. St. Perpetua—patron saint of mothers in the Catholic pantheon—was an African Christian martyred in 203 A.D. She lived her truth to her last moment. Those not familiar with Perpetua’s story will nevertheless appreciate this book because of the psychological understanding that von Franz brought to everything she focused on. In this circumambulation of the events and visions of the saint’s life, we are fortunate to hear the clear voices of two strong women.

As always, Marie-Louise von Franz shares insights of immediate value that are both deeply erudite and strikingly practical.