Archetypes of the Enneagram: Exploring the Life Themes of the 27 Enneagram Subtypes from the Perspective of Soul

by Susan Rhodes

"What is my path in life?" That s something we all want to know. The enneagram can help us find the answer because it reveals the nine key sources of motivation that give rise to human behavior. While these nine patterns of motivation are usually equated with personality types (or even as ego types that hamper our spiritual evolution), Susan Rhodes sees them nine dynamic archetypes that help us fulfill our destiny, dharma, or calling in life. In her first book, "The Positive Enneagram," she describes the nine types from an affirmative and non-dualistic perspective. In "Archetypes of the Enneagram," she goes further, illuminating the fascinating world of the 27 enneagram subtypes, using examples from film, TV, and real life. But she also delves more deeply into the nature of the enneagram, the nine types, and the subtypes, providing a Jungian-based model for enneagram work--a model in which the 27 subtypes become 27 paths to individuation. Comprehensive, provocative, and original, "Archetypes of the Enneagram" is the kind of book that invites readers to embark on their own journey of self-discovery."

Genres: Psychology

412 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2010

Reviews

[Bella · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first half of the book is 5 stars. It pulls together research on the enneagram really well. The second half of the book is 3 stars. The descriptions of the subtypes vibe caricatures that I did not always find helpful. Granted, it’s difficult to capture how every individual expresses a type, but if I didn’t already know mine, I would have glossed over the author’s without second thought.