Alexandre Jacques François Bertrand

Docteur Alexandre Bertrand vers 1820

Alexandre Jacques François Bertrand (25 April 1795 – 22 January 1831) was a notable French physician and mesmerist. He is best known for his contributions to the study of animal magnetism and mesmerism during the early 19th century.

Early Life and Education

Bertrand was born in Rennes, France. He pursued his medical studies in Paris, where he developed an interest in the theories of Franz Mesmer, the founder of mesmerism.

Career

Bertrand became a prominent figure in the field of animal magnetism, a practice that involved the use of magnetic fields to influence the human body. He was a contemporary of other notable mesmerists such as Marquis de Puységur.

Contributions to Mesmerism

Bertrand's work in mesmerism was significant in advancing the understanding of the phenomenon. He conducted numerous experiments and wrote extensively on the subject. His most notable work, Traité du somnambulisme et des différentes modifications qu'il présente, published in 1823, explored the various states of somnambulism (sleepwalking) and its implications for animal magnetism.

Personal Life

Bertrand was married and had children. He continued his medical practice and research until his untimely death in 1831.

Legacy

Bertrand's contributions to the field of mesmerism and animal magnetism were influential in the development of hypnosis and psychotherapy. His work laid the groundwork for future research in these areas.

See Also

• Franz Mesmer
• Animal magnetism
• Hypnosis
• Somnambulism

Related Pages

• Franz Mesmer
• Animal magnetism
• Hypnosis
• Somnambulism
• Armand-Marie-Jacques de Chastenet, Marquis de Puységur