A review of the recent literature on hysteria and hysterical personality reveals a persistent relationship between the two concepts beyond their common semantics. A 7-trait profile of the hysterical personality emerges, and a critique of the studies concludes that hysteria does not necessarily present itself in a hysterical personality. Although larger studies are needed, it may be safe to assume that all patients with hysteria have some of the features of the hysterical personality, whereas not all hysterical personalities will present typical symptoms of hysteria. © 1973 The Psychiatric Quarterly.