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It is generally known that the earliest beginnings of psycho-analysis are to be found in the collaborative work of Sigmund Freud and Josef Breuer.3 Breuer was a highly respected Viennese internist, who had, like Freud, begun his scientific career in the field of physiology. It was Breuer's treatment of a hysterical patient (Anna O.), which led to his discovery of the 'cathartic method' and which provided the basis for the eventual collaboration between him and Freud. The exact nature of Breuer's contribution was discussed frequently by Freud, and it has also been discussed by students of the history of psycho-analysis.4 The recent discovery of a letter in which Breuer outlines what he felt he had contributed to the development of psychoanalysis5 makes it possible to review the question in a new light. The letter contains many interesting details and it is, therefore, presented here in translation from the German. It is apparent that the letter, written to Auguste Forel, was in reply to Forel's request to Breuer for information about Breuer's rôle in the discovery of psychoanalysis.
Dr. Josef Breuer, I., Brandstätte 4.
Vienna, November 21, 1907.
Dear Sir,
My reply to your friendly letter has been delayed for a few days because I had to look through the old book (Studies on Hysteria) again, to refresh my memory. I have now done so and I must confess that, contrary to my expectations, I was really quite pleased with it.
As regards the question of the ideas contributed by the two authors to the various elements of the theory involved and of psychotherapeutic analysis, I must begin by explaining that I am unable to discuss the matter with Freud since for several years I have had no personal contact with him. It is, however, very difficult, purely from one's own memory, to separate the contributions in the case of work carried out so very much in common as that which produced this book. The case which I described in the Studies as No. 1, Anna O., passed through my ha