Freud revolutionized the way we think about ourselves. His psychoanalytic terms such as Id, Ego, libido, neurosis and Oedipus Complex have become a part of our everyday vocabulary. This book tells the story of Freud's life and ideas from his upbringing in 19th-century Vienna, his early medical career and his encounter with cocaine, to the gradual evolution of his theories on the unconscious, dreams, and sexuality. Demystifying the facts behind Freud's discovery of psychoanalysis.

"Previously published in the UK and Australia in 1992 under the title Freud for beginners and in 1999 as Introducing Freud." -- title page verso.