Introduction to "The Uncanny"

The German psychologist, Ernst Jentsch wrote an essay in 1906, in which he identified and conceptualised the state of the 'uncanny' for the first time. Later the research was continued and the concept was developed by Sigmund Freud, namely in his essay "The Uncanny" in 1919. The original term in German "unheimlich" is translated as "unhomely".

The German word 'unheimlich' is obviously the opposite of 'heimlich' ['homely'], 'heimisch' ['native'] the opposite of what is familiar; and we are tempted to conclude that what is 'uncanny' is frightening precisely because it is not known and familiar.

( "The Uncanny" Sigmund Freud )

Jentsch and Freud both made a strong reference to the work of the German writer, E.T.A. Hoffman, as well as other important writers.
An architectural historian, Anthony Vidler wrote an essay in 1992, in which he explores "The Uncanny" effects found in literature, urbanism and modern and traditional architectures.

Key essays:

• "On the Psychology of the Uncanny" (1906) by Ernst Jentsch.
• "The Uncanny" (1919) by Sigmund Freud
• "The Architectural Uncanny-Essays in The Modern Unhomely" (1992) by Anthony Vidler

Stories mentioned in their essays:

• "The Fall of the House of Usher" by Edgar Allan Poe
• "On the islands of Jersey and Guernsey" by Victor Hugo
• "The Sand-Man (Der Sandmann)"
• "The Deserted House (Das ode Haus)"
• "The Deed of Entail (Das Majorat)" by E.T.A. Hoffmann