These stories and ideas attempt to make sense of the universe and humanity's place in it.
What is Mythology?
100
Nah, dude--I'm afraid or obligated or inadequate.
What is Refusal of the Call?
100
Star Wars
Who is George Lucas?
100
The achievement of the stated goal of the quest (not Daniel!).
What is the Ultimate Boon?
200
The Sun God
Who is Shamash?
200
This function of mythology allows us to connect with a transcendent mystery source dwelling within us.
What is the Mystical Function?
200
This isn't Kansas anymore--this place is dangerous!
What is Crossing the First Threshold?
200
The Hero's Journey--though I sometimes call it the Monomyth.
Who is Joseph Campbell?
200
Tests, tasks, and ordeals--and I may not succeed in all of them.
What is The Road of Trials?
300
My origin parallels the creation of Adam in the Book of Genesis.
Who is Enkidu?
300
This function of mythology validates and maintains the social structure of the world and society as it exists.
What is the Sociological Function?
300
I've got what they want--makes going home awfully tough.
What is the Magic Flight?
300
The walls of Uruk with strong, fired brick.
Who is Gilgamesh?
300
Quest? What quest? She's so beautiful...
What is Temptation?
400
I brought out the man in the beast that was Enkidu.
Who is Shamhat?
400
This function of mythology explains how the universe works and changes radically through history; for this function to work, it must successfully incorporate contemporary science.
What is the Cosmological Function?
400
Worries? What worries? No regrets, no anxieties...
What is the Freedom to Live?
400
They're "Elementary, Folks."
Who is Adolf Bastian?
400
How can't I make amends with him? He holds ultimate power in my life.
What is Atonement with the Father?
500
I prayed to gods above me to protect my son.
Who is Ninsun?
500
The function of mythology that teaches.
What is the Pedagogical Function?
500
So he's finally decided to go through with it--I'm here to help.
What is Supernatural Aid?
500
The boat with seven decks upon which I brought the seeds of all living things.
Who is Uta-napishti?
500
The death may be physical or spiritual, but there will be rebirth bringing divine knowledge, love, compassion and bliss.