Sophie Freud Speaks on Her Famous Family
Here’s an event that’s worth attending, even if you’re not really into books or libraries — the “fascinating” factor alone is a sufficient draw. Tonight at 7:30pm EST, Sophie Freud, the granddaughter of renowned and still influential Austrian psychiatrist Sigmund Freud, will make an appearance at Waltham Public Library (735 Main Street, Waltham, 781-314-3425).
Last year, Praeger Publishers released Sophie Freud’s captivating memoir Living in the Shadow of the Freud Family. The autobiographical book recounts her life during the previous century, when she lived in Europe and the United States with her mother Esti, who was married to Sigmund Freud’s eldest son Martin. Mother and daughter were both avid diarists, and their diligence recording the details of their lives produced vivid accounts of historical events, such as when they were in Paris and were forced to flee France by bicycle in order to avoid the Nazis just two days before their arrival.
Interestingly, neither of Sophie Freud’s grandfathers approved of the other’s child as a spouse for their own child. Her maternal grandfather, a prominent lawyer in Vienna, thought the Freuds were not affluent enough, while Sigmund Freud believed Esti and her family led too lavish a lifestyle. And then there’s the matter of Esti’s father describing Sigmund Freud’s writing as so-called “pornography.” It’s a good thing he’s not around today.
Like her grandfather, Sophie Freud is a scholar. Not only does she hold the distinction of Professor Emerita of Social Work at Boston’s Simmons College, but she’s also a graduate of Harvard and Simmons, as well as a former clinical social worker. Hearing her speak about her amazing life and book will be divine. Getting her signature on your copy will be icing on the cake.
Admission to Sophie Freud’s book engagement is free, but I suggest arriving early since the library notes that space is limited. Interested parties can also call 781-314-3425, extension 2 in advance to reserve a seat, which seems like a very smart idea.
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