The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell Summary and Reviews
|
List Price: Our Price: $8.79 You Save: $7.16 (45%) Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days Buy Used: from $0.91 (click here) Category: Book See more book details and other editions |
|---|
Book Reviews of The Power of Myth
Book Review: Downright troubling in places
Summary: 2 Stars
Because this book has a conversational format as it consists of a series of interviews between Campbell and journalist Bill Moyers, there are points where it becomes a bit repetitive. While Campbell makes some important points about the nature of myths and mythology in all human societies, I found that he often seems to overstate the obvious. Indeed, much of what Campbell says about myths, symbols and the human unconscious has already been covered with more intelligence and clarity by psychologist Carl Jung. Campbell generally refrains from discussing modern, political mythology - even though his general argument about the socializing nature of myths would seem to demand consideration of this aspect. Moyers probably meant for these interviews to serve as a showcase for Campbell's philosophy of life and as such he was too indulgent, rarely prodding Campbell to more fully explain some of his views. Thus, we never really get much more than Campbell repeatedly telling us to "follow our bliss." I think `Sesame Street' communicates a more sophisticated message than that. At other places, Campbell's views are genuinely disturbing. For example, he said it is "totally improper" and even "obscene" to "judge people in terms of civil law for performances that they rendered in time of war." Moyers, once more shirking his journalistic duty, didn't press him on this matter - like asking him his opinion of the Nuremberg trials. To me Campbell's statement reads like a pseudo-philosophical justification for atrocities of all sorts. Whatever Campbell's merits as an expert on myths/mythology, he was far from being a clear-headed philosopher, and this comes out in this book.Book Review: Excellent!
Summary: 5 Stars
This is a great book! Written as a dialog between Campbell and award winning journalist, Bill Moyers, this book is a very easy read. I kept it by my bedside for a few weeks and read in the evenings, imagining a time past when story-telling was an importan tool for developing social order and values...Book Review: Excellent!
Summary: 5 Stars
This is one of the best books I have read. Definitely words to consider, no matter who you are. It works best in conjunction with either the DVD or the VHS tape of the interview.Book Review: Extraordinary!!!
Summary: 5 Stars
Despite what some reviewers have stated, this book is very powerful! Joseph Campbell explains the role of mythology so clearly and eloquently that it will change your perceptions. I strongly encourage this book to everyone! In fact, this book is one, like "Brief History of Time" by Stephen Hawkins, that requires occasional re-reads to ensure you have truly grasped the concepts presented.Excellent book! Excellent video series as well.
Book Review: Follow your Bliss
Summary: 5 Stars
An approach to personal mythology/collective consciousness. Outstanding development of universal questions such as: Why are we here/ Whats it all about/ Whats my role in all this/ Do we matter?
Campbell, is a master at drawing these philosophical musings from history and traditions.