Erikson and Psychobiography, Psychobiography and Erikson

Abstract In recent years two publications appeared that revived public interest in the life and work of Erik Erikson (1902–1994). One certainly is Lawrence J. Friedman ‘s Identity ‘s Architect (1999), an outstanding biography of Erikson ‘s life and work. Friedman, a historian, spent ten years producing this volume. He contacted many of the most important people in Erikson ‘s life, including his wife Joan, who helped in providing data about more than sixty years of their life together. His use of archival sources both here and abroad was extensive and his knowledge of Erikson ‘s work and the history of psychoanalysis impressive. The major events of Erikson ‘s life are clearly drawn and well documented, making the book a trea-sure trove for the psychobiographer.