Orphan

The orphan is independent of his parents, a common motif for heroes in myths and fairy tales. It is a symbol of being a single individual, a person who individuates. Edinger writes: "Becoming an orphan means that parental support is lost and that parental projections are broken; it is also a basic prerequisite for a conscious experience of individuality.” (1992, p. 163.) Orphan is thus a symbol of (potential) individuation.

The individual has the potential of being unique and independent, so to speak, which may be the background to why the Philosopher's Stone was called an orphan; sometimes "homeless orphan", possibly to further emphasize its independence. (Cf. Widow.)

Of course, a dream figure that is an orphan can on the other side imply that the inner content is abandoned and in need of the dreamer's support.

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