ABSTRACT
Having first looked at the various psychological studies on Kierkegaard, this chapter is devoted solely to a Jungian analysis of Kierkegaard. Such an analysis focuses on his childhood upbringing, particularly the unconscious split between real and imagined parent. The argument that Kierkegaard’s religious theories are built on the problematic relationship he has with his parents is here explored in detail. My analysis is that the younger Kierkegaard longs to fit into society; however, along the way this longing becomes transformed into something approaching neurotic bitterness. The increased severity of Kierkegaard’s bitterness as he aged together with his Christian idealism is, I believe, best understood as the compensatory effects of the lifelong suppression of his anima. His difficulties with women combined with his problems in regards to the body and sexuality, are all factors that lend primary weight to his religious needs, motivating his religious philosophy.
