COURSE: HUM101

TASK: Functions of Myth

SUBMITTED TO:

FACULTY NAME: Turzo Nicholas Mondal

FACULTY INITIAL: TNM

SUBMITTED BY:

NAME: SUDIPTA NANDI SARNA

STUDENT ID: 20101257

SECTION: 03
According to Joseph Campbell, myth is a doorway for cosmic energies that flow into human
culture Myth refers to the dreams of the universe that are beyond religion and science, thereby
awakening the enchanted spirit that resides within everything. It tries to explain the mysterious
and the incomprehensible, leaving us in complete awe and making us curious for further
knowledge (Joshua J Mark, 2018). Myth in its truest essence refers to the tales emerged from
imagination or shared experiences of individuals or communities. These stories represent the
cultural ethos and logos of that particular society, its beliefs and its lifestyles as well. Sometimes
the interpretations of myths may vary, depending upon space and time. However, myths act as a
vital bridge connecting ancient wisdom to the present as they are passed down through
generations, predominantly through oral traditions. Additionally, myths often find their place in
popular culture, further perpetuating their influence and relevance in contemporary society.

The term "mythology" originates from the Greek words "mythos," signifying "story" or "myth,"
and "logos," denoting "word" or "speech." By combining these components, "mythology"
embodies the eloquent narratives and discussions surrounding the myths and stories of a specific
people or culture. Joshua J Mark describes mythology as the exploration of sacred tales and
fables that delve into diverse facets of the human experience, including concepts like morality,
suffering, the origins of humanity, cultural values, and beliefs about the afterlife.By telling
stories about ancestors, Gods, heroes, and otherworldly beings, these myths convey the beliefs
and values of a particular community. The origins of traditions and rituals as well as natural
occurrences like weather patterns and celestial events are also explained by myths (Joseph
Campbell, 2016).

For instance, it is predicted in the Hindu mythology of Kalki that the demon Kali will cause sin
and sorrow on earth during the Kali-Yuga. During several epochs of the Kali-Yuga, society will
disintegrate, with people losing faith in God and turning to cannibalism. In order to battle evil
powers, the Devas will ask Lord Vishnu, who will take birth as Kalki, for assistance. The
Sunyavadis and the demon generals Koka and Vikoka will be faced off by Kalki, where Kalki will
win. At some point, Kali will be vanquished, and Kalki will marry and build a kingdom in
Shambhala. Kalki will rule for a thousand years and then return to Vaikuntha with peace on earth.
As per Joseph Campbell, there are four basic functions of mythology, namely the mystical, the
cosmological, the sociological, and the pedagogical(Joseph Campbell, 2016). My understanding
of these functions are as follows.

The mystical relates to one’s sense of wonder about the world. In other words, it expresses the
awe and mystery of the universe. It reminds us of the vastness and challenges of the world.
Mythical individuals navigate this with ease, inspiring others and embodying empowerment. It
connects us to the indescribable higher order of the cosmos, evoking wonder and directing
attention beyond the physical world. The mystical function of myth fosters a profound sense of
awe and a deeper connection to existence. The mystical function is exemplified in the myth of
the Oracle of Delphi and Apollo. Apollo prevails in his confrontation with the Python who was
securing the oracle. This tale addresses the meeting of the heavenly and human, inspiring awe
and wonder. It encourages reflection on the unfathomable facets of the cosmos and how we relate
to God. The Oracle of Delphi itself is a symbol for the mystical function because people
consulted it for advice and prophecy. This myth gave people the confidence to navigate life's
uncertainties and seek for a deeper understanding by encouraging them to consider their place in
the cosmos.

To understand the universe better, the cosmological function of myth formulates and conveys the
thought of it thereby reflecting different cultural beliefs. Despite lack of empirical proof, it
provides cultural understanding by explaining the natural phenomena such as seasons through
many explanations. The world before science was fully understood through myth, which
frequently includes rituals. Early humans relied on myth for comfort and understanding, and in
current times, mythic figures bring order and purpose to the midst of chaos. The intricacy of
existence is made more understandable and orderly by myth. The cosmological function is
epitomized in the myth of the Greek God Zeus and the Titans. Here, the Titans had been defeated
by Zeus and the Olympian Gods, signifying the transformation from a primordially chaotic world
to a cosmos with order. The functions and interactions of the Gods inside the universe are
explained by this cosmic story, as well as the structure and order of the world.

Myth serves a sociological purpose by confirming and upholding the social structure of a
community, bolstering moral principles, and offering order. The Ten Commandments of Judaism
and Christianity serve as examples of how it binds people to a moral code established by a deity
or deities. The Holy Grail legend, which teaches Christian virtues, is one example of how
sociological myths build on cultural morals. As demonstrated in tales like Pandora and Eve, they
also discuss how people fit into society. Mythology gives guidelines for behavior and provides a
framework for navigating the intricacies of society while allowing for divergence when
necessary. It also establishes rules, conventions, and moral standards.

As a part of the pedagogical function of myth, individuals need to synthesize and comprehend
the myth's prior purposes in order to use them in their own lives. It forges a connection between
the individual and the world and acts as a mentor for overcoming obstacles in life. The deeper
meanings embodied in these myths about the cosmos and life frequently go beyond language and
result in spiritual awakenings. Personal, potent myths are created by individuals. Humans can
also discover meaning and purpose through myth, which also serves to motivate others to pursue
similar goals. Fulfillment and contribution to the larger good are both benefits of living in
harmony with one's mission. The myth of the Buddhist Bodhisattva Guanyin serves as an
example of the pedagogical function of myth. Guanyin is considered as a kind spirit who aids
and leads people along their spiritual journeys. Guanyin's legend imparts teachings on empathy,
selflessness, and compassion, enticing people to develop these virtues in their own lives. People
can learn to relieve suffering and get a better knowledge of both themselves and other people by
putting the Guanyin teachings into practice. In Asian societies that have been affected by
Buddhism, this pedagogical myth acts as a compass for the advancement of moral and spiritual
values.

According to psychologist Carl Jung, myth is a necessary component of human psychology that
seeks meaning and order in the universe. A lyrical reflection of our past, present, and future can
be found in mythology. We need to examine a myth's power and how it continuously influences
our perception of the world.
 REFERENCES

● Mark, J. J. (2023). Mythology. World History Encyclopedia.

https://www.worldhistory.org/mythology/

● McGee, G. Z. (2018, September 9). Joseph Campbell’s Four Basic Functions of

Mythology. Fractal Enlightenment.

https://fractalenlightenment.com/36315/life/joseph-campbells-four-basic-functions-of-my

thology

● Sullivan, K., Sullivan, K., & Sullivan, K. (2019). When Kalki the Destroyer Descends,

the Apocalypse Begins. Ancient Origins Reconstructing the Story of Humanity’s Past.

https://www.ancient-origins.net/myths-legends/when-kalki-destroyer-descends-greed-corr

uption-war-destruction-and-apocalypse-006545