The Phallic Quest: Priapus and Masculine Inflation

Studies in Jungian Psychology by Jungian Analysts #38

by James Wyly

Priapus was a Greek god famous for the enormous size of his genitals. In this book Priapus is seen as both an apt metaphor for modern-day patriarchy’s inflation—its grandiosity and search for more and more power—and an image compensating the individual’s lack of connection with a masculinity balanced by the feminine.

Beginning with a survey of the mythology of Priapus and a discussion of his symbolic significance in classical and modern literature, the author goes on to present case studies, including dreams, illustrating ways in which one may recognize and integrate a split-off priapic complex.

A concluding chapter examines the implications of an unbridled priapic drive, and suggests how both the individual and society can rediscover a healthy sense of phallos, truly creative masculine energies.

Genres: Psychology

128 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1989