The papers of Jacob A. Arlow (1912-2004) span the years 1923-2004, with the bulk of the material from 1972 to 1992. Through his teaching, lectures, and writings, Arlow helped form the core of modern psychoanalytic theory. He was known for expanding upon the theories of Sigmund and Anna Freud and for his own work in exploring how unconscious fantasies influence how individuals perceive reality. He thought that fantasies were a “constant feature of mental life” and represented a “secret rebellion against reality.” The collection includes correspondence, memoranda, family papers, lectures and writings, notes, subject files, patient records, photographs and slides, newspaper clippings, and printed matter relating chiefly to Arlow’s work as a psychoanalyst. The papers are in English.

The majority of the papers is comprised of lectures and writings by Arlow. His lectures and writings focus on different aspects of psychoanalytic theory and include papers that were never published. Topics featured are time, fantasy and myth, empathy, conflict, and reconstruction. Also included with these files are a few of Arlow’s commencement addresses. The correspondence relates to Arlow’s professional interests and his tenure as editor of the Psychoanalytic Quarterly . The subject files reflect his participation as an officer and member of various organizations and institutions. Also included are files documenting his education and medical training and various awards and honors that he received during his lifetime.