Our minds contain a vast universe of nuances and secrets to be unraveled as we discover the damage of self-deception laying in the unconscious, and how it takes us off our path. The pull toward self-deception distorts reality and exploits oneself. Deception divides self-knowledge, and self-hate takes the form of internal saboteurs. Life is compromised.

Presented by international guest Susan E. Schwartz, this lecture will explore the myth of Narcissus and Echo, not only as mythological figures but also how they appear as inner characters affecting all relationships – including the therapeutic relationship. The myth has contemporary cultural application as the roles of the masculine and feminine become increasingly more fluid. In this interpretation, Echo reaches out toward connection, while Narcissus refuses anyone but himself.

Many in psychological and analytical treatment minimise the extent of the internal self-hate, defense of singularity, lack of intimacy, and isolation, failing to realise or admit the damage. Narcissism is described as a grandiose sense of self, exhibitionistic, needing constant reassurance, yet beneath these traits they are suffering in disturbed relationships. Susan will elaborate on what narcissism is, why it is misunderstood, and whether narcissists are capable of love, while also noting their burden of perfectionism.

A focus of the lecture includes the ruthless trail of envy with its projections onto others causing ruin. Envy is not prominently addressed in Jungian work, yet it is a powerful destroyer when it remains unconscious. Envy is oriented toward ‘killing off’ any threatening energy, and demolishing ‘the other’ who is assumed to have it all. Within the personality, there also exists a dangerous and devious unconscious envy of the self. Yet when envy is brought into awareness and understood, it can initiate the creative urge to develop within what is attributed to others.

Drawing on the core concepts of Jungian analytical psychology as well as clinical material, dreams, the language of myth, the use of symbols, and case examples, Susan will guide us further into the psyche. Her presentation moves beyond pathology towards hope by exploring how to forge self-knowledge and emotional transformation. In the process one gains the treasure of oneself.