A thorough and fascinating study of the problem of the origin of consciousness is based on rich mythological material and the analytical psychology of C. G. Jung. The main idea of Dr. Neumann: the development of consciousness passes through archetypal stages of development common to all humanity. Centroversion is the main driving force in the evolution of consciousness, integrating the introverted and extroverted poles of the psyche and leading to the development of selfhood. The book is filled with fascinating examples and original ideas, the archetypes of the Creation of the World, the Great Mother, the Birth and Transformation of the Hero, Victory over the Dragon are discussed in detail.