Definition: Described in Interpretation of Dreams, the Oedipal Complex is a term invented by psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud who explained present day neuroses partially on the basis of wish fulfillment. The Oedipal Complex is based on Freud's observation that children often seem to have fallen in love with one parent and developed a hatred for the other. Freud believed this tendency exists in all children but was more marked in neurotics. Freud believed the Oedipus myth bears witness to the prevalence of this Oedipal Complex, both in that it was a popular topic for Greek tragedy and the fact that modern audiences still relate to the story of Oedipus (who murdered his father Laius and then married his mother Jocasta).
See: Chapter 5 Freud Interpretation of Dreams
See: Chapter 5 Freud Interpretation of Dreams
