Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth
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Among his many gifts, Joseph Campbell's most impressive was the unique ability to take a contemporary situation, such as the murder and funeral of President John F. Kennedy, and 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 and live out the themes of mythology. Based on a six-part PBS television series hosted by Bill Moyers, this classic is especially compelling because of its engaging question-and-answer format, creating an easy, conversational approach to complicated and esoteric topics. For example, when discussing the mythology of heroes, Campbell and Moyers smoothly segue from the Sumerian sky goddess Inanna to Star Wars' mercenary-turned-hero, Han Solo. Most impressive is Campbell's encyclopedic knowledge of myths, demonstrated in his ability to recall the details and archetypes of almost any story, from any point and history, and translate it into a lesson for spiritual living in the here and now.
 Write a Review of Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth
 
LOLJPB, February 17, 2006
Reviewer: LOLJPB
General Content: If you’re ready for a fascinating voyage into the world of mythology, you’ll love “Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth”. This 2-disc set is a compilation of interviews that journalist Bill Moyers conducted with Campbell shortly before Campbell passed away.
There are six segments of approximately an hour each in which Campbell uses a number of myths from different cultures to illustrate spiritual wisdom in our lives. Some of these stories are quite remarkable but the most noteworthy thing might be the similarity of myths among people from different parts of the world. Seeing how different peoples attempt to explain their universe in similar ways presents a tremendous sense of just how unified we are as people, contrary to what modern society and organized religion often tell us.
One theme that comes up repeatedly through the interviews is Campbell’s recommendation to “Follow Your Bliss.” By this he means that each individual should find that which they are called to do and most passionate about and pursue it with all of their heart and efforts. Only by doing so will an individual feel truly alive, according to Campbell. It is certainly apparent throughout the interviews that Campbell himself has followed his bliss as he demonstrates an amazing adoration for mythology and storytelling.
This title is highly recommended to anyone with an interest in mythology, sociology and spirituality. Moyers does an excellent job of interviewing Campbell and bringing out the true essence of the man. It’s quite an amazing journey that Campbell takes you on and one that you won’t want to end.
Video-Specific Content: I watched this title on DVD (2 discs, approx. 6 hours, rented from Netflix). The quality of the interviewing was excellent and accompanying visuals were very well-done. This is certainly a title that I would rather watch than listen to. Overall, an excellent piece of work.
- Published:
2001
- Original Year Of Publication:
1988
- LearnOutLoud.com Product ID:
J003295
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Volumes |
ISBN |
ISBN-13 |
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Audio CD |
6 Discs |
1565115104 |
9781565115101 |
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Cassette |
6 Tapes |
0942110927 |
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Video Cassette |
6 Tapes |
6303503381 |
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DVD |
2 Discs |
B00005MEVQ |
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Religion & Spirituality
Comparative Religion
Social Sciences
Psychology
Literature
Ancient & Medieval Classics
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