When reading a book or watching a movie, do you ever wonder why the adventures unfold the way they do right before your very eyes? For instance, many people grew up with the mythological adventures of Superman and his ability to save the world by overcoming evil. Certainly, myths are powerful and timeless treasures that touch our lives in various ways. Joseph Campbell, a well-known expert on mythology, discusses the powers of myths and our constant fascination with them, in "Myths to Live By." In essence, he describes myths as archetypical images that guide the human spirit toward self-understanding and the spirit's connection with other people, which are passed down through the generations as folklore. He also reveals that there is a universal formula for the mythological image of the hero and his journey toward enlightenment. He notes that the formula's steps involve the hero's separation from the physical world, his retreat inward into spiritual depth and suffering, and then spiritual rebirth. Again, why should readers or the viewing audience be interested in this bit of information? Well, we might want to understand our deeper wiser selves, as Joseph Campbell suggests. If you find yourself wanting to raise your level of spiritual consciousness, then you will enjoy this book and maybe become a fan of Joseph Campbell and his unique perspectives about life and the universe.
Check out: The Joseph Campbell Foundation at http://www.jcf.org
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