The Power of Myth

Synopsis

NATIONAL BESTSELLER  An extraordinary book that reveals how the themes and symbols of ancient narratives continue to bring meaning to birth, death, love, and war.

The Power of Myth launched an extraordinary resurgence of interest in Joseph Campbell and his work. A preeminent scholar, writer, and teacher, he has had a profound influence on millions of people-including Star Wars creator George Lucas. To Campbell, mythology was the "song of the universe, the music of the spheres." With Bill Moyers, one of America's most prominent journalists, as his thoughtful and engaging interviewer, The Power of Myth touches on subjects from modern marriage to virgin births, from Jesus to John Lennon, offering a brilliant combination of intelligence and wit.

From stories of the gods and goddesses of ancient Greece and Rome to traditions of Buddhism, Hinduism and Christianity, a broad array of themes are considered that together identify the universality of human experience across time and culture. An impeccable match of interviewer and subject, a timeless distillation of Campbell's work, The Power of Myth continues to exert a profound influence on our culture.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Descent into the Underworld

* Summary: Explores the universal human experience of facing challenges and overcoming them.
* Real Example: Campbell cites the story of Orpheus and Eurydice, where Orpheus descends into the underworld to retrieve his beloved wife. Despite obstacles and temptations, his determination and love guide him through the darkness.

Chapter 2: The Road of Trials

* Summary: Discusses the various obstacles and hurdles that heroes must overcome on their journey to maturity.
* Real Example: Campbell uses the story of Luke Skywalker in "Star Wars." Skywalker faces numerous trials, including lightsaber duels, confrontations with Darth Vader, and temptations to join the dark side. He eventually emerges as a wiser and more powerful Jedi.

Chapter 3: The Meeting with the Goddess

* Summary: Explores the transformative encounter with a divine or feminine figure who represents the source of creativity and inspiration.
* Real Example: Campbell refers to the story of Parsifal in Arthurian legend. Parsifal's encounter with the "Grail Maiden" leads to his spiritual awakening and understanding of the Grail's true nature.

Chapter 4: The Woman as Temptress

* Summary: Examines the archetypal figure of the temptress, who represents the dangers of passion and distraction.
* Real Example: Campbell cites the story of Hercules and the Sirens. Hercules' ability to resist the sirens' allure allows him to continue his journey and avoid becoming lost in worldly pleasures.

Chapter 5: The Hero's Atonement or Initiation

* Summary: Discusses the hero's experience of atonement or initiation into a new state of being.
* Real Example: Campbell uses the story of Jesus Christ. Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection represent his sacrifice and subsequent transformation as the savior of humanity.

Chapter 6: The Apotheosis

* Summary: Explores the hero's ultimate triumph or apotheosis, where they achieve their full potential and gain divine status.
* Real Example: Campbell cites the story of Buddha. Buddha's enlightenment and attainment of nirvana represent his transcendence of the human condition and his transformation into a divine being.

Chapter 7: The Magic Flight

* Summary: Discusses the hero's return to the ordinary world after their transformative journey.
* Real Example: Campbell uses the story of Odysseus in "The Odyssey." Odysseus' return home to Ithaca symbolizes his successful completion of his heroic trials and his reintegration into society.

Chapter 8: The Master of Two Worlds

* Summary: Examines the hero's ability to navigate both the ordinary and the extraordinary worlds, bringing wisdom and knowledge to both.
* Real Example: Campbell cites the story of Merlin in Arthurian legend. Merlin's mastery of magic and his ability to advise kings demonstrate his role as a mediator between the worlds of mortals and immortals.

Chapter 9: The Universal Myth

* Summary: Discusses the universality of mythological themes and their relevance to all human experience.
* Real Example: Campbell uses the story of Cinderella as an example of the universal theme of "Cinderella's slipper," which represents the search for fulfillment and the transformative potential within ordinary human lives.