Freud and the Melancholy Rabbi: A Novel (The Karnac Library)

This novel is about a meeting that happened in Vienna in 1902 between the fifth Rabbi of Lubavitch, Rashab, and Sigmund Freud. The reason for the Rabbi’s consultation with Freud was paralysis in his arm and a persistent stutter.

The book tells the story of the Rabbi’s travels from Lubavitch to Vienna and his subsequent meetings with Freud. The Rabbi’s son and future successor accompanies his father on the trip. Freud analyzes the details of the case with Wilhelm Stekel, one of Freud’s most distinguished pupils and a fellow psychoanalyst.

In the meetings, Freud and the Rabbi discuss themes related to their world views including Kabballah, psychoanalysis, faith, science, and how to deal with a changing world. Their discussions not only clarify their ideological views, but also provide insight into their personal stories, fears and internal struggles.