This thesis utilizes the theories of Carl Jung and Joseph Campbell to demonstrate that the participant in a myth undergoes vicariously a transformation of consciousness. I discuss and clarify the role of archetypes and symbols; the meaning and function of myth; and the three stages to the hero's journey; namely, departure, initiation, and return. I demonstrate how these stages, as well as the shadow, anima, animus, and self archetypes are active in four myths. These myths are The Epic of Gilgamesh, Bhagavad Gita, Owein, and Star Wars. I hope to have made contributions in three particular ways. The first is by clarifying Jung's concept of the collective unconscious and the archetype. I hope to have described them and demonstrated their usefulness to a step beyond what has been hitherto written. The second is the demonstration of the three-stage journey repeating itself at three different levels. Campbell does not refer to these multi-stage journeys in his analysis of the hero myth. The protagonist in mythic tales participates in a physical, then an intellectual, and finally a spiritual stage of transformation. Lastly, I explain how participation in myth can clear the mind of the participant and lead to greater awareness. Myths promote inner growth through the use of symbols. They clarify reality and guide one to become aware of reality. Specifically, the psychological method is demonstrated to be the most useful for clarifying the archetypal images found in myth. / Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 51-09, Section: A, page: 3066. / Major Professor: David A. Darst. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--The Florida State University, 1990.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:fsu.edu/oai:fsu.digital.flvc.org:fsu_78310 |
| Contributors | Tigue, John William., Florida State University |
| Source Sets | Florida State University |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Text |
| Format | 189 p. |
| Rights | On campus use only. |
| Relation | Dissertation Abstracts International |
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