A Jungian Exploration of the Puella Archetype

‘Susan Schwartz offers a long-awaited creative incentive to delve into the intricate layers of the puella archetype. What makes this book particularly compelling is its thought-provoking examination of the puella’s role in our culture and a re-evaluation of her previous demeaning portrayals. Through a nuanced analysis that draws from diverse disciplines, the author provides a multifaceted view that enriches our understanding of this complex archetype. By intertwining theory with clinical examples and dreams, the author brings the puella archetype to life, making it accessible and relevant to a wide range of readers. The book is an important contribution to the field and a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of the human psyche.’

Ursula Wirtz, Jungian analyst, Zürich, Switzerland

‘A study on Puella manifestation in contemporary times, coupled with consideration of its cultural context, is essential for integrating the dualities within the psyche. These dualities include the balancing of feminine and masculine energies, independence and connectedness, vulnerability and strength. The book on Puella is relevant for a deeper understanding of a woman’s maturation process and transitions, for revealing sources of feminine potential and creativity.’

Professor Gražina Gudaitė, Vice President of IAAP

‘In her latest book, Girl Unfolding – Puella’s Emergence: A Jungian Exploration, Susan Schwartz provides the reader with an astute reappraisal of the puella archetype. Schwartz carefully reveals the positive, creative potential of the puella that has been obscured or lost in traditional interpretations of the puella personality. Weaving together rich clinical vignettes with elements of poetry, philosophy and psychoanalytic thought, Schwartz masterfully creates a much-needed contemporary counterpoint to the familiar, but one-sided conventional interpretations of the puella experience.’

Mark Winborn, PhD, Jungian psychoanalyst and clinical psychologist. His books include Interpretation in Jungian Analysis: Art and Technique and Jungian Psychoanalysis: A Contemporary Introduction

‘Susan Schwartz shares her unique perspective as both a clinical psychologist and a Zürich-trained Jungian analyst as she peels back the layers of the psyche to expose the eternal girl energy in all of us. In this pioneering exploration of the neglected puella archetype, she challenges the notion of preserving youth at all costs, guiding readers to embrace their capacity for symbolisation and trust in the surrender to the as-yet-unknown. By confronting our identification with the father and reclaiming the disregarded and wounded feminine, we can embark on a transformative journey towards a more complete personality.’

Laura London, creator of Speaking of Jung podcast