Watch Joseph Campbell: Mythos

Joseph Campbell: Mythos is a fascinating and enlightening show that delves into the world of mythology, exploring the universal themes and archetypes that are found in every culture throughout history. Joseph Campbell, a renowned scholar and author, acts as the host and guide for viewers as he takes them on a journey through some of the most iconic stories and myths from around the world.

Filmed in 1985 and released by Acorn Media, this series is based on Campbell's book The Hero with a Thousand Faces, which is considered a groundbreaking work in the field of mythology. Campbell's mission with Mythos is to show that beneath the surface differences of various cultures and religions lies a common thread of storytelling and symbolism.

Through a series of six hour-long episodes, Campbell examines the hero's journey, the role and symbolism of the goddess, the world of the supernatural, and the idea of the sacrifice and transformation. Each episode focuses on a different aspect of mythology and storytelling, using examples from a wide range of cultures, from ancient Greek myths to Native American folklore.

Campbell's approach to mythology is unique in that he sees it not just as a collection of interesting stories, but as a way of understanding the human experience. He argues that myths touch on universal themes and archetypes that are part of the human psyche, and that by studying them, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.

One of the strengths of Mythos is the way in which it interweaves different cultural traditions and perspectives. Campbell is careful to point out the differences between cultures and the ways in which their stories and symbols may vary. At the same time, however, he is always looking for the universal themes that tie these different traditions together.

For example, in the "Sacrifice and Bliss" episode, Campbell explores the idea of sacrifice and ritual in various cultures. He examines the story of Osiris from ancient Egyptian mythology, the myth of the phoenix from classical Greek and Roman tradition, and the Aztec practice of human sacrifice.

Through these examples, Campbell illustrates how sacrifice and transformation are key components of many mythological traditions, and how they reflect deep-seated psychological needs and aspirations. He also looks at the ways in which modern society has lost touch with these ancient rituals and symbols, and how this has led to a sense of disconnection and alienation.

Another strength of Mythos is Campbell himself. A captivating and engaging speaker, he has a way of making even the most abstract and complex concepts accessible and understandable. He is clearly passionate about myth and its importance, and this enthusiasm is infectious.

Throughout the series, Campbell draws on a wealth of knowledge from a range of fields, including anthropology, psychology, and literature. He has a gift for synthesizing these different perspectives and making connections between seemingly disparate ideas.

Overall, Joseph Campbell: Mythos is a compelling and informative series that will appeal to anyone with an interest in mythology, psychology, or the human experience. It is a testament to Campbell's enduring legacy as a pioneering thinker who broke down barriers between disciplines and opened up new ways of thinking about the world. Whether you are a scholar, a student, or just a curious viewer, this series is sure to leave a lasting impression.