Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book presents an overview of what little is known about the short life of Herbert Silberer. It presents an overview of a special focus of such alchemists over the centuries, namely the creation of the homunculus. The book focuses on an outgrowth of alchemy, and also a personal commitment of Silberer's: Freemasonry and its use of symbols, and draws on a series of lectures he gave at the Grand Lodge in Vienna later in his career. It looks at the complex, entangled relationship Silberer had with psychoanalysis; and at writings that reflected both his efforts to comply, as well as his clear voice in opposition to certain psychoanalytic assumptions. The book concludes with an earnest appraisal of what Silberer contributed; why he should be legitimately reintroduced into the 'history of psychoanalysis' discussion.