Transformations of Myth Through Time

Episode 01

The In the Beginning: Origins of Man and Myth

Jan 1, 1989

Campbell explores the dawn of mankind's mythic consciousness with a study of temple caves from the Paleolithic period. Campbell also introduces the basic concepts in the study of mythology: the role of the shaman, the stages of initiation, and the significance of lunar and solar symbolism.

Episode 02

Where People Lived Legends: American Indian Myths

Jan 1, 1989

Campbell's telling of the Navaho legend of "Where the Two Came to Their Father" illustrates an American Indian version of the hero's journey and illustrates the relationship of man and nature, a constant theme through time in American Indian cultures.

Episode 03

And We Washed Our Weapons in the Sea: Gods and Goddesses of the Neolithic Period

Jan 1, 1989

This title phrase signaled the beginning of the conquests and invasions of the warrior cultures. Through the artifacts from the Neolithic Period, Campbell traces the ascendance of the warrior cultures of the Gods over the agricultural based Goddesses societies.

Episode 04

Pharaoh's Rule: Egypt, the Exodus, and the Myth of Osiris

Jan 1, 1989

Campbell's discussion of the burial rituals and Egyptian art of the Upper and Lower Kingdoms reveals the emerging mythological themes of the Near East.

Episode 05

The Sacred Source: The Perennial Philosophy of the East

Jan 1, 1989

In this lecture, Campbell introduces the Perennial Philosophy of the East and focuses on the Indian tradition from its origins to the end of the Vedic period.

Episode 06

The Way to Enlightenment: Buddhism

Jan 1, 1989

Campbell introduces stories of Buddha's life and enlightenment to reflect the essence of the Buddhist religion. The different sects of Buddhism are contrasted in their conception of transcendence. Campbell compares Buddhism with Taoism and Confucius and also discusses Buddhism's impact on the ancient West.

Episode 07

From Psychology to Spirituality: Kundalini Yoga, Part I

Jan 1, 1989

Campbell discusses the purpose and extent of the Tantra system against the background of the Raja theory of Pantanjali. He also presents other types of Yoga.

Episode 08

From Psychology to Spirituality: Kundalini Yoga, Part II

Jan 1, 1989

Through the study of elaborate artwork, Campbell portrays the full Chakra system of Kundalini Yoga and compares it with modem Western psychology and Christian concepts.

Episode 09

From Descent to Heaven: The Tibetan Book of the Dead

Jan 1, 1989

In this program, Campbell reveals how the art, philosophy and mysticism of the Eastern Way reach a noble expression in the Buddhism of Tibet.

Episode 10

From Darkness to Light: The Mystery Religions of Ancient Greece

Jan 1, 1989

Through a presentation of beautiful and compelling works of art, Campbell illustrates the myths of ancient Greece. In particular, he tells the story of Persephone and Demeter as the basis for the mystery religions.

Episode 11

Where There Was No Path: Arthurian Legends and the Western Way

Jan 1, 1989

Campbell traces the wide ranging influence of the Arthurian legends and ties them to the emergence of the warrior-based society. He also illustrates the break with tradition in the tension between honor and love in these legends.

Episode 12

A Noble Heart: The Courtly Love of Tristan and Isolde

Nov 1, 1984

Campbell tells many tales of the troubadours and courtly love. In his presentation of these tales, he explores the meaning and symbology of the many tests and trials of courtly love.

Episode 13

In Search of the Holy Grail: The Parzival Legend

Dec 1, 1984

Campbell reveals the changing orientation of Western culture in his discussion of The Grail. In particular, Campbell contrasts the symbology of The Grail as an individual quest versus a holy quest.