The Power of Myth

Joseph Campbell, Bill Moyers

Campbell’s most impressive gift was his ability to take a contemporary situation, such as the murder & funeral of President John F. Kennedy, & help us understand its impact in the context of ancient mythology. Herein lies the power of The Power of Myth, showing how humans are apt to create & live out the themes of mythology. Based on a six-part PBS tv series hosted by Bill Moyers, this classic is especially compelling because of its engaging question-&-answer format, creating an easy, conversational approach to complicated & esoteric topics. For example, when discussing the mythology of heroes, Campbell & Moyers smoothly segue from the Sumerian sky goddess Inanna to Star Wars’ mercenary-turned-hero, Han Solo. Most impressive is his encyclopedic knowledge of myths, demonstrated in his ability to recall the details & archetypes of almost any story, from any point of history, & translate it into a lesson for spiritual living in the here & now.–Gail Hudson

status Copy #1 (1812): in
genre Spirituality » Mythology
publisher Double Day
publish date 1988
popularity checked out 0 time(s)

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