Gradiva: A Pompeiian Fancy

Name: Gradiva: A Pompeiian Fancy
Author: Sigmund Freud

The novella tells the story of an archaeologist who becomes obsessed with a female figure depicted in a ancient Roman relief, which he names Gradiva, meaning "she who steps along." He dreams that she is walking through the ruins of Pompeii, and eventually travels to Italy to search for her.

By Sigmund Freud · First published 1903 · Genre: Psychological Fiction, Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction · 30,775 words

First lines

On a visit to one of the great antique collections of Rome, Norbert Hanold had discovered a bas-relief which was exceptionally attractive to him, so he was much pleased, after his return to Germany, to be able to get a splendid plaster-cast of it. This had now been hanging for some years on one of the walls of his work-room, all the other walls of which were lined with bookcases. Here it had the advantage of a position with the right light exposure, on a wall visited, though but briefly, by the evening sun. About one-third life-size, the bas-relief represented a complete female figure in the act of walking; she was still young, but no longer in childhood and, on the other hand, apparently not a woman, but a Roman virgin about in her twentieth year. In no way did she remind one of the numerous extant bas-reliefs of a Venus, a Diana, or other Olympian goddess, and equally little of a Psyche or nymph.

What this Textopian page supports

Gradiva: A Pompeiian Fancy is listed on Textopian as a novel by Sigmund Freud, dated 1903 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Sigmund Freud
Date: 1903 CE
Language: English
Genres: Psychological Fiction, Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Romance
Length: 30,775 words
Structure: 1 section, 300 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Psychological Fiction — The narrative explores the inner thoughts and emotions of Norbert Hanold, focusing on his psychological development and obsession with the bas-relief of Gradiva.
Literary Fiction — The work is characterized by its rich prose, thematic depth, and exploration of human experience, particularly in relation to art and memory.
Historical Fiction — Set against the backdrop of ancient Pompeii, the story incorporates historical elements and references to Roman culture and art.
Fantasy — The dream sequences and the blending of reality with Norbert's imaginative visions create a fantastical element within the narrative.