Hypnosis in Fiction

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Abstract
Some stereotyped and common conceptions of hypnosis found in selected literary, fictional works are presented. Not only are many supranormal powers attributed to hypnosis, but the topic of hypnosis has served as an excellent literary vehicle for dealing with the ancient philosophical problem of mind versus body. Other universal conflicts, such as those between dominance and submission and the hypnotist's inevitable punishment for possessing extraordinary powers, are often encountered. These popular notions of hypnosis, furthermore, depict both the hypnotist and hypnotic subject in highly stereotyped roles. The hypnotist is generally viewed as an evil, demonic agent while the hypnotic subject functions as a naïve, but good, hapless victim.

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