Inferno (Strindberg)

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Inferno is the title of a semi-autobiographical novel by the Swedish author and playwright, August Strindberg.

Written in French in 1897 at the height of Stringberg's troubles with both censors and women, the book is superficially concerned with Strindberg's life both in and after he lived in Paris. But at different levels it also explores themes of Alchemy and Neuroticism.

Inferno has often been cited as proof of Strindberg's own personal neuroses, such as a persecution complex. But there is also plenty of evidence to suggest that Strindberg, although undoubtedly experiencing mild neurotic symptoms, both invented and exagerrated much of the material in the book for dramatic effect.