Transformations of Myth Through Time

1989 · Documentary

Legendary raconteur Joseph Campbell explores the myth and symbols that have shaped our world and given us what he has called "the experience of being alive."

Episodes

▶1. The In the Beginning: Origins of Man and MythCampbell explores the dawn of mankind's mythic consciousness with a study of temple caves from the Paleolithic period. Campbell also introduces the basic concepts in the study of mythology: the role of the shaman, the stages of initiation, and the significance of lunar and solar symbolism.▶2. Where People Lived Legends: American Indian MythsCampbell's telling of the Navaho legend of "Where the Two Came to Their Father" illustrates an American Indian version of the hero's journey and illustrates the relationship of man and nature, a constant theme through time in American Indian cultures.▶3. And We Washed Our Weapons in the Sea: Gods and Goddesses of the Neolithic PeriodThis title phrase signaled the beginning of the conquests and invasions of the warrior cultures. Through the artifacts from the Neolithic Period, Campbell traces the ascendance of the warrior cultures of the Gods over the agricultural based Goddesses societies.▶4. Pharaoh's Rule: Egypt, the Exodus, and the Myth of OsirisCampbell's discussion of the burial rituals and Egyptian art of the Upper and Lower Kingdoms reveals the emerging mythological themes of the Near East.▶5. The Sacred Source: The Perennial Philosophy of the EastIn this lecture, Campbell introduces the Perennial Philosophy of the East and focuses on the Indian tradition from its origins to the end of the Vedic period.▶6. The Way to Enlightenment: BuddhismCampbell introduces stories of Buddha's life and enlightenment to reflect the essence of the Buddhist religion. The different sects of Buddhism are contrasted in their conception of transcendence. Campbell compares Buddhism with Taoism and Confucius and also discusses Buddhism's impact on the ancient West.▶7. From Psychology to Spirituality: Kundalini Yoga, Part ICampbell discusses the purpose and extent of the Tantra system against the background of the Raja theory of Pantanjali. He also presents other types of Yoga.▶8. From Psychology to Spirituality: Kundalini Yoga, Part IIThrough the study of elaborate artwork, Campbell portrays the full Chakra system of Kundalini Yoga and compares it with modem Western psychology and Christian concepts.▶9. From Descent to Heaven: The Tibetan Book of the DeadIn this program, Campbell reveals how the art, philosophy and mysticism of the Eastern Way reach a noble expression in the Buddhism of Tibet.▶10. From Darkness to Light: The Mystery Religions of Ancient GreeceThrough a presentation of beautiful and compelling works of art, Campbell illustrates the myths of ancient Greece. In particular, he tells the story of Persephone and Demeter as the basis for the mystery religions.▶11. Where There Was No Path: Arthurian Legends and the Western WayCampbell traces the wide ranging influence of the Arthurian legends and ties them to the emergence of the warrior-based society. He also illustrates the break with tradition in the tension between honor and love in these legends.▶12. A Noble Heart: The Courtly Love of Tristan and IsoldeCampbell tells many tales of the troubadours and courtly love. In his presentation of these tales, he explores the meaning and symbology of the many tests and trials of courtly love.▶13. In Search of the Holy Grail: The Parzival LegendCampbell reveals the changing orientation of Western culture in his discussion of The Grail. In particular, Campbell contrasts the symbology of The Grail as an individual quest versus a holy quest.

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