Animus In C. G. Jung’s analytical psychology, the animus is the unconscious contrasexual component of the female self–i.e. the woman’s supposed ‘inner male.’
The animus reveals itself to consciousness by virtue of a series of archetypal images. Usually a primitive, sexual figure first emerges.
As psychological development progresses, the initial symbol is followed by a series of increasingly refined, ‘higher’ images.
Jung says the animus may take either a dark or light form. Like all symbols, it mediates destructive or creative unconscious forces. The negative aspect of the animus has been symbolized by figures like Frankenstein, the Werewolf, Faust and Dr. Jekyll’s evil counterpart, Mr. Hyde.
It’s perhaps been historically embodied by maniacal types such as Adolf Hitler, Jack the Ripper and Diocletian.
The positive animus is symbolized by the male heroes of world mythology. It is incarnated in wrestling figures like The Rock (lower, more sensual form), the Romantic poet Shelly (higher level of eros), Winston Churchill (societal or cultural hero), and Mahatma Gandhi (spiritual exemplar). » Anima
Critics of this aspect of Jung’s archetypal psychology tend to see his gender theories as too general, sexist and metaphysical.
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[...] Published April 16, 2008 Uncategorized Some must chase animus, others anima. I rather heal spirit making friends with inner [...]
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