First edition of Erik H. Erikson’s landmark synthesis of psychoanalysis, childhood development, and culture, with notable feminist provenance.
This landmark work brought psychoanalytic ideas about childhood into conversation with anthropology, history, and social life. Here Erikson developed the account of psychosocial development and identity for which he became most well-known.
- Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
- Place: New York
- Year: 1950, first edition (4th printing)
- Format: Hardcover with dust jacket
- Pagination: 397 numbered pages
- Binding: Dark blue cloth over boards; gilt spine lettering and linear ornaments
- Provenance: Marilee Karl (1941–2024)
CONDITION: Very Good in Good jacket. Binding sound and strong. Rear board has slight fading/discoloration along lower edge. Deckled fore-edge; top edge dust-darkened, distinctly darker than fore- and bottom edges. Some markings within the text, presumed from previous owner (see below). Endpapers toned where they have been in contact with the jacket flaps. Jacket bright and presentable at front, with shelf wear; several small (~1/8") tears along upper edge at spine, a ~3/4" closed tear at upper edge of rear panel; rubbing at corners; a notable discoloration at the top of the rear panel. Several small spots of discoloration (transfer? chipping?) on the jacket spine. Bottom corner of front flap clipped.
An ink ownership inscription on the front flyleaf reads: “Marilee Karl 1963 // 235 McGiffert.” Who was this owner?
Karl (1941-2024) was a U.S. civil rights activist, global feminist organizer, author, and founder of feminist organizations. She co-founded Isis International in 1974, one of the first international feminist NGOs, dedicated to advancing women’s communication, knowledge-building, political organizing, collective learning, and transformative leadership. Originally established in Rome, Italy, Isis International later expanded its presence to Geneva, Switzerland; Santiago, Chile; Kampala, Uganda; and Manila, Philippines. Her work was characterized by a focus on feminist analysis of women’s roles in development, the amplification of feminist voices in the Global South, and collective action addressing issues such as food security and natural resource management. She was also an advocate for peace, emphasizing the role of women as peace-makers. In recognition of her contributions, Karl was included among the 1,000 women nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005. ("235 McGiffert" seems to refer to a room in McGiffert Hall at Union Theological Seminary.)