Review: Power of Myth

The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is really a compilation of Campbell's interview(s) with Bill Moyers. As such, it is conversational in style and a fairly easy read of Campbell's more complex ideas captured in his many other books. Campbell was a scholar and loved his subject, which comes through.



The only reason this gets a 4 and not a 5 is because it is an interview. Think of this as a survey class for all of Campbell's other work.



For those who do not know the impact of Campbell--beyond the rather well known fact that Lucas consulted him for Star Wars-- his concept of the Hero's Journey is taught by most creative writing teachers, almost as if it were gospel.



This is a rather simplistic way of viewing fiction and oversimplifies Campbell's teachings. I recommend his other books, if you can find them. Many are out of print and most are not light reading.






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