For Jennifer's final episode of the season, she has chosen a slightly different pick with the Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell. Tune in as she analyzes Campbell's theories on comparative mythology.
The Power of Myth, by Joseph Campbell
Resources Jennifer used:
- Joseph Campbell has a rather robust wikipedia article, that also details and links some of the critiques leveled against him that you can check out. Like Jennifer mentioned in the episode, these are all pretty old at this point.
- Interview w/ the Curator of the Joseph Campbell Archive and Library gives some interesting perspective on Campbell’s career from someone who knew him personally.
- Another article published shortly after Campbell’s death on his works and legacy.
- Intrigued by our discussion? Purchase a copy of The Power of Myth for yourself.
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: Descender by Jeff Lemire and Dustin Nguyen.
Creative’s Corner: Paige serves another mythology knockout with YouTube channel Fortress of Lugh.
Discussion Questions
- Campbell says, “We can’t have a mythology for a long, long time to come. Things are changing too fast to become mythologized” (38). Do you agree with this statement? If there is a modern mythology, what would it be?
- Campbell argues that there are four functions of myths, but that the fourth one is most important for us today: pedagogical. Meaning that myths teach us “how to live a human lifetime under any circumstances” (39). What do you think? What have myths taught you in your life?
- What do you think of the concept of the monomyth (the hero’s journey)? Is it truly as all-encompassing as Campbell made it out to be?
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram
- Find us on Twitter
- Don’t forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon
*Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them*
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.