In A Short History of Myth, Karen Armstrong analyzes the role of mythology throughout six different historical periods: starting with ancient hunting societies, continuing through the rise of agriculture and civilization, and ending with the present day. She draws on the great research and analysis done in the twentieth century, presenting the topic of myth with amazing clarity, brevity, and precision. It provides an excellent introduction to the study of mythology, especially its psychological and sociological aspects.
Here are a few quotations from the book that I particularly enjoyed and that I thought would provide a good sample of what the book contains:
Mythology was designed to help us to cope with the problematic human predicament. Mythology is an art form that points beyond history to what is timeless in human existence, helping us get beyond the chaotic flux of random events, and glimpse the core of reality. (6-7)
In the ancient world, a creation myth was usually recited during a period of extremity when people felt they needed an infusion of divine energy. Its purpose was primarily therapeutic. The idea was to tap into timeless energies that supported human existence. (70-71)
The experience of reading a novel has certain qualities that remind us of mythology. It projects the reader into another world, parallel but apart from their ordinary lives. Like mythology, an important novel is transformative. If we allow it to do so, any powerful work of art can invade our being and change it forever. (147-48)
Even if you have already studied mythology to some degree, I still recommend this book. (I had taken multiple courses in mythology at a large university, and the book introduced me to new ideas and added structure to my previously scattered thoughts.)
(This book offers an excellent analysis of myth. If you are interested in reading myths themselves, I recommend Laura Gibbs’ online Mythology and Folklore course.)