Perspective

Joseph Campbell delivered the lectures that were the original material for this book as an expert in the subject of mythology to a lecture hall full of people who admired his work and perspective as a man with a comprehensive understanding of all of the world's mythologies and histories. He speaks as an American raised in the Christian religion; his disillusionment with the institution of the Christian Church and its presentation of the Bible as a literal historical record is evident. His tone when he describes Old Testament accounts is one of unveiled disdain. He talks about Christian rites and rituals having been too explained until they have become exclusive and legalistic prerequisites for entrance to what amounts to a social club, instead of being allowed to speak for themselves, interpreted by each follower as their truth is relevant. He is addressing Americans, for the most part, who...