Joseph Campbell’s Mythologising Crises

In his seminal work, The Hero with a Thousand Faces (2008), Joseph Campbell articulates the universality of myths and their role in human psychology and culture. One of the core insights of the text is the concept of mythologising crises—interpreting individual or collective challenges through the lens of archetypal narratives that provide meaning, guidance, and the potential for transformation. This concept is integral to understanding how societies and individuals navigate crises, framing these moments as opportunities for growth, renewal, and the redefinition of identity.

1. Crisis as a Catalyst for Transformation

Campbell argues that myths are not merely stories but symbolic representations of the human journey through life’s challenges, often structured as a cycle known as the monomyth or “The Hero’s Journey.” In this framework, a crisis typically marks the call to adventure, thrusting the individual or collective into an unknown and often chaotic realm.

Crisis and the Shadow

• Crises force individuals and societies to confront their shadow elements, those parts of themselves they have ignored or repressed.

• These moments demand integration of these disowned aspects, aligning with Jungian psychology’s emphasis on shadow work.

For example, societal upheavals like wars, pandemics, or economic collapses can reveal systemic inequalities or unsustainable practices, compelling communities to face their collective shadow and reevaluate their values and priorities.

2. Mythologising as a Psychological Coping Mechanism

When a crisis occurs, individuals and societies often frame the experience within a mythic context to make sense of it. Campbell refers to this process as “mythologising,” which serves both psychological and social purposes:

Psychological Purpose:

• Finding Meaning: Crisis moments are reframed as part of a greater narrative, reducing feelings of randomness and despair.

• Resilience and Hope: Mythological parallels suggest that suffering is temporary and ultimately leads to growth or renewal.

For example, in times of economic hardship, narratives of “rising from the ashes” often emerge, echoing mythological motifs like the Phoenix or Shiva’s cyclical destruction and creation.

Social Purpose:

• Unity and Collective Action: Shared myths help unify communities, providing a common language and purpose.

• Cultural Identity: Myths can reinforce cultural values and traditions, providing a framework for navigating crises in ways that align with collective identity.

3. Examples of Mythologising Crises

Historical Contexts

• World War II: The Allied effort was often framed as a battle between good (freedom, democracy) and evil (fascism, tyranny). This mythologised narrative galvanised collective action and resilience.

• The Civil Rights Movement: Leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. drew on religious and mythological archetypes, portraying the movement as a moral quest for justice and equality, akin to the biblical Exodus.

Modern Contexts

• Climate Change: The framing of the climate crisis as a battle for planetary survival often invokes myths of the Earth as a nurturing mother figure (Gaia) and humans as her stewards.

• Pandemics: The COVID-19 pandemic was frequently portrayed as a “war” against an invisible enemy, invoking archetypes of collective heroism and resilience.

4. The Risks of Mythologising Crises

While mythologising can provide meaning and cohesion, it also carries risks:

• Polarisation: Simplistic good-versus-evil narratives can deepen divisions rather than foster understanding.

• Inaction: Viewing crises as fated or inevitable (e.g., as part of a divine plan) can discourage proactive solutions.

• Exploitation: Political or social leaders may manipulate mythic narratives to consolidate power or marginalise dissenting voices.

For example, during times of political upheaval, authoritarian regimes often frame their actions as fulfilling a heroic destiny, silencing opposition under the guise of serving a greater good.

It is believed by applying Campbell’s framework to contemporary crises, individuals and societies can better navigate the challenges of transformation, emerging with deeper insight, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose. The process of mythologising crises becomes a powerful tool for navigating the complexities of contemporary life.

Further Reading and Applications

For a deeper exploration of mythologising crises and its relevance to modern challenges, readers may consider:

• Joseph Campbell’s The Hero with a Thousand Faces for foundational insights into the monomyth.

• Carl Jung’s Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious for understanding the psychological dimensions of crisis.

• Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, which explores how individuals find purpose in suffering, drawing parallels to mythological narratives.

• Karen Armstrong’s The Case for God, which examines the enduring role of myth and symbolism in human culture and spirituality.