A Short History Of Myth (myths Series) Official

A Short History of Myth (Myths series) (The Myths Series) eBook

is a non-fiction book by religious scholar Karen Armstrong . Published in 2005, it serves as the introductory volume to the ambitious Canongate Myth Series .

Armstrong breaks down the evolution of mythology into several distinct historical periods:

The book provides an insightful overview of how human mythology has evolved from the Palaeolithic period to the modern day. 🔑 Core Thesis

: A pivotal era that birthed the great world religions and philosophies (Buddhism, Confucianism, Monotheism, Greek rationalism) prioritizing internal morality over external ritual.

Armstrong argues that the history of myth is essentially the history of humanity. She asserts that:

: Focused on the sacredness of the animal killed and the abyss of the hunt.

: Developed complex pantheons and epics (like the Epic of Gilgamesh) to reflect organized city states.