Princeton Legacy Library: Collecting an Unruly Passion

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From rare books and valuable sculptures to baseball cards and teddy bears, collectors have pursued a remarkable array of objects throughout history. In this captivating exploration, psychoanalyst Werner Muensterberger provides a psychological examination of the emotional roots behind the relentless desire for collectibles. He profiles a range of driven collectors—from the dedicated to the infatuated—whose chronic restlessness is temporarily soothed by acquiring new finds. Muensterberger’s engaging style highlights the eccentricities of various figures, including heads of state, literary icons, and psychoanalytic patients, all seeking relief from despair through their collections. The narrative features diverse sketches of notable collectors such as Walter Benjamin, Mario Praz, and Catherine the Great. Central to the work are detailed accounts of three individuals: contemporary collector Martin G; Sir Thomas Phillipps, who aimed to own every book in the world; and Honoré de Balzac, a compulsive collector whose character in "Cousin Pons" reflects his own acquisitive passions. Additionally, Muensterberger offers a charming tour of collecting during the Renaissance and the Golden Age of Holland. Throughout, the author presents elegant variations on the complex theme of collecting, echoing John Steinbeck's simple truth: a deep appreciation for "junk." Originally published in 1993, this work is now available through the Princeton Le