Chapter 7, Question Period Summary and Analysis

Editor Kennedy notes the frustration of trying to organize a generous Campbell question-and-answer session. Campbell is energized, eager to respond, and overflowing with insight. The "problem" of mythology today is that while it still evokes and directs energy, the images have become absurd and lost meaning. Once people realize the events are dubious, things fail. Then Freud muddles matters by claiming that myth is really about mother, father, and little boy. There are shattered mythologies all around that once gave society structure, and any of the fragments can still activate the mind.

The universal "Hero's Journey" motif applies to Moses and to Christ. In Galatians, Paul says that Christ redeems humankind from the "curse of the Law." Having the Law serve humankind rather than vice versa is an enormous transformation. Jesus transcends the law during his 40 days...