The Power of Myth

Campbell and Moyers point to Star Wars as a prime example of modern mythology. What other stories could be considered influential modern myths? Analyze your story of choice in reference to the archetypal mythological themes, symbols, and messages that Campbell notes throughout the book.

The book is structured as an extended transcript of a discussion between the expert, Joseph Campbell, and the curious amateur, Bill Moyers. Why do they present the information as a transcript of the original dialogue rather than translate the information into a narrative? What would be lost or gained with a change of structure? Use the text to support your answer.

Campbell’s advice for those seeking to transform their consciousness is to follow your bliss. How can following bliss—following an individual path of happiness—transform your consciousness? What does Campbell suggest following bliss reveal about the self, the world, and the universe? Use the text to support your answer.

What is the power of myth? What can myth offer both the individual and society? What occurs when myth loses its power within a culture? Use examples from the text to support your answer.

How are the concepts of the transcendent, the unconscious, and consciousness related? What are the key differences between these energies? How do myths and rituals connect the individual to these various concepts? Use the text to support your answer.

Campbell says the troubadour poets of the 12th and 13th centuries are responsible for “one of the most important mutations of human feeling and spiritual consciousness” in history (249). How did the philosophy of the troubadours and the stories of courtly love influence medieval and modern modes of thinking? Why was troubadour philosophy threatening to institutions like the Church? Use examples from the text to support your answer.

Campbell asserts that biblical tradition and modern Christian practice distance the individual from the divine. Why does he believe this occurs? What differences does he highlight between the biblical tradition and other religions/mythologies that produce a different connection to the divine? Use examples from the text to support your answer.

How does Campbell reconcile his advice to choose one’s own path with the need to exist as a functioning member of society? How can the individual use myth to learn about navigating the inner and outer world? Use examples from the text to support your answer.