ABSTRACT

In all cultures and at all times, humans have told stories about where they came from, who they are and how they should live their lives. 'Myths and Mythologies' brings together the key classic and contemporary writings - philosophical, psychological, sociological, semiological and cognitivist - on myth. To the insider, myths contain truth, revelation and a 'history of ourselves'; to the outsider, a culture s myths can be seen as the product of foolish, infantile and wishful thinking. Myths tell us about specific cultures, about human creativity, and how narrative shapes and reflects understanding. The 'Reader' is an invaluable resource for students and scholars interested in the impact of narrative on human culture and the meaning of truth in religious language.

part I|89 pages

Philosophical Approaches

part II|57 pages

Psychological Approaches

part III|69 pages

Sociological Approaches

chapter |11 pages

Introduction to Part III

chapter |20 pages

The Gods: Æsir and Vanir

chapter |17 pages

Primitive Worlds

chapter |14 pages

What Makes Indians Laugh

part IV|69 pages

Semiological Approaches

part V|106 pages

Cognitivist Approaches

part VI|13 pages

Conclusion