A Short History of Myth
Book • 2005
In 'A Short History of Myth', Karen Armstrong delves into the evolution of mythology from the earliest human societies to the present day.
The book covers six ages of myth, starting from around 20,000 BCE, and explains how myths served as a moral framework and helped people make sense of the world.
Armstrong argues that myths are essential for human well-being, providing a way to cope with emotions and find ultimate meaning and significance in life.
She also discusses the impact of the Enlightenment and the rise of scientific reasoning on the role of myths in modern society, emphasizing the need for myths in contemporary culture to foster compassion, empathy, and moral guidance.
The book covers six ages of myth, starting from around 20,000 BCE, and explains how myths served as a moral framework and helped people make sense of the world.
Armstrong argues that myths are essential for human well-being, providing a way to cope with emotions and find ultimate meaning and significance in life.
She also discusses the impact of the Enlightenment and the rise of scientific reasoning on the role of myths in modern society, emphasizing the need for myths in contemporary culture to foster compassion, empathy, and moral guidance.
