The Power of Myth
Joseph Campbell1988

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