Trauma, descent, and therapy: A clinical interpretation of the descent symbolism in the myth of Inanna

This depth psychological study explored how the descent and ascent symbolism found in the Sumerian myth of Inanna's descent might expand one's knowledge of intrapsychic processes that may arise when working with trauma in therapy. An interpretive multiple-case-study methodology was utilized in order to produce a description of the themes or patterns of descent and ascent in the myth and in an unpublished case history. This study utilized an alchemical hermeneutic approach to research, and drew from Jungian and psychoanalytic theory and texts, including Kalsched's archetypal self-care system (1996), alchemical symbolism, the concept of the frame, containment through Bion's (1962, 1970) normal projective identification, and Winnicott's notion of holding and a facilitating environment.;Placing the fields of mythology, symbolism, and imagery into a dialogue with psychoanalytic psychotherapy allowed for a deeper understanding of the container needed for trauma work that involves reclaiming parts of the self that have been split off from conscious awareness. The descent to the underworld was seen as a metaphor for coming into contact with unconscious material, and the analytic interpretation resulted in a detailed description of the various stages of descent and ascent, along with the most prevalent themes related to each stage. The myth offered a progressive and linear journey, and the psychological case history presented a more varied process that was not linear in nature. The theme of dissociation was found to be present throughout the myth and the case, as well as separation, disconnection, unification of opposites, and death and rebirth. Kalsched's self-care system highlighted the need for integration when inner cohesion has been disrupted. Reclaiming those disparate parts and reconnecting with them is what Inanna's journey into the underworld and her return portrays. This research offers a reference point for the therapist, a framework from which to delve into the work. For the myth, the factors that led to a successful return from the underworld included empathic attunement, containment, and connection with another mind. Within the psychological case, these same factors indicated growth and healing.