Briefly
A house is universally regarded as a symbol of protection, comfort, and stability. It represents a personal space, one’s inner psyche, and the body. The different rooms in a house can signify different aspects of one’s personality and life. For instance, the attic often represents hidden memories, whilst the basement might symbolize subconscious feelings or fears. A house in a dilapidated condition often symbolizes feelings of despair and sadness, indicating a negative state of mind.
House in Dreams
In the realm of dreams, a house typically represents the dreamer’s mind. Psychologists often interpret the appearance of a house in a dream as an indication of the dreamer’s mental state. The different rooms and their conditions can provide insights into different aspects of the dreamer’s psyche. For instance, discovering new rooms in a dream could signify self-discovery or personal growth. A clean and tidy house might suggest mental clarity and order, whereas a messy or cluttered house could hint at confusion, chaos, or unresolved issues.
House in Myths and Folklore
In myths and folklore, houses often hold significant symbolic meanings. In many fairy tales, a house is a place of transformation and growth. It represents the hero’s personal space where they can confront their fears and challenges. For instance, in the tale of “Hansel and Gretel”, the gingerbread house symbolizes temptation and danger. In Greek mythology, the house of Atreus is a prominent symbol of curse and inherited guilt. Furthermore, haunted houses in folklore often symbolize unresolved past, hidden secrets, or repressed memories.
Reviewed by Alexander Lys, M.L., a specialist in the field of symbolism research and dream psychology. A certified participant in numerous psychological seminars and courses, the author of hundreds of articles on psychology, including studies on symbolism in dreams and myths from a scientific perspective.
