ABSTRACT
The introduction sets the scene for the work. It introduces the reader to the Melanie Klein Archive, which is where Klein's original clinical record of her long analysis with her adult patient, Mr B can be found. It discusses earlier research done by colleagues in the archive, and briefly introduces Mr B. The historical context for Mr B's analysis is outlined. For example, Klein's work with him begins not long before the threat of war looms. The outbreak of the Second World War then sees Mr B being called up, which means his analysis is interrupted, though Klein continues to see him both in Cambridge and when he returns to London on occasional leave. The introduction explains that Klein's work with Mr B helps her to formulate, and go on elaborating, many of her most unique theoretical constructs, such as that of the combined parental couple, her theory of mourning and the need to excavate love which can become deeply buried under hate. It suggests that Klein's work with Mr B provides strong evidence for her analytic method as well as her theories.
