Professor: Gantt Gurley
4 credits
This course will be a critical evaluation of the theory of myth. Why does Odin have one eye? How is Anansi so wise? Why did Metztli choose to become the moon? This course is a study and assessment of theories of myth and the art of storytelling. The notion of myth as a pre-scientific theory of nature, supposedly peculiar to an early period or stage in human evolution, has given way to a vast array of conceptions and approaches across a myriad of disciplines. In this course, students will learn methodological and research skills that are applicable across a range of fields. We will construct annotated bibliographies, learn how to use motif indices, trace mythopoeic thought diachronically, and propose and vet solutions to the origin of particular mythic narratives. Readings include works by Joseph Campbell, Carl Jung, Claud Lévi-Strauss, and selections from world mythology and mythography. To facilitate our study of the primary sources we will make use of both Indo-European data and folklore and belief. Throughout the course the students will be encouraged to broaden their understanding of the primary materials by being introduced to many of the scholarly debates and trends of the field.