Life's betrayals both define and condemn us to re-create ourselves. Jungian analyst Aldo Carotenuto shows us the positive and fundamental role of betrayal in our growth throughout life. Betrayal visits us from the moment of birth and remains a life theme through childhood, marriage, aging, and death. It is also the foundation of the Jewish and Christian religions. Carotenuto applies the term to betray to many issues brought to psychotherapy. In psychoanalysis, many old certainties are revealed and betrayed. It is also a time when the expectations of others need to be betrayed. By heightening our consciousness of betrayal and being betrayed, this book moves us toward our true nature and wholeness. Table of Contents Introduction: Life as Betrayal Even Before Birth A Fatal "Happy Event" The Parable of the Son Who Refused to Be Loved Apropos of Roles and Trust Inimici Hominis Domestici Eius Family Circle and Hermetic Circle Nostalgia Deflected The Union of Two Solitudes The Terrible Torture of Silence Euphoria Versus Joy The Compulsion to Seduce and the Advantage of Being Betrayed The Climate of Incest An Unfrequented Temple Sex Negated The Unpleasing Body The Body Betrayed The Unwell Body In Pursuit of Death Death Encountered Death Desired Betrayal and Freedom Epilogue: Experience and Loss Bibliography Index