THE EPISODIC PSYCHOSES OF VINCENT VAN GOGH

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Abstract
Van Gogh''s letters, written before the discovery of psychoanalysis, constitute an act of self-revelation comparable in many ways to that of the modern psychoanalytic patient. The detailed introspective data contained in them provide a unique opportunity for understanding the syndrome of episodic behavioral disorders. The data suggest how Van Gogh''s episodic psychoses both interfered with and augmented his unique creativity. For Van Gogh, limbic system sensitivity, physical neglect, absinthe abuse and repeated psychological stress as well as strength of character, creative temperament, innate artistic ability and disciplined development of his artistic skills provided a rare combination of coincidences which in part explains why his life was a shambles and his artistic creativity unique.

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