Primitive Mythology

The Masks of God Series, Volume I

By: Joseph Campbell, David Kudler - editor

Narrated by: Arthur Morey

The author of such acclaimed books as The Hero With a Thousand Faces and The Power of Myth discusses the primitive roots of mythology, examining them in light of the most recent discoveries in archaeology, anthropology, and psychology.

©1959, 1969 Joseph Campbell, renewed 1987 by Joseph Campbell (P)2017 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved

Family connections

It’s not that I liked or dislike this story, I found it a fascinating story of human interaction, from family, to work and through social encounters the author has shared interesting insights and theories about the nature of humans in a way I would have otherwise never have thought to consider.

God winking at us thru the ages!

Whether you be a casual listener, student of mythology & world theology or a person of faith looking to enrich your experience this is certainly the series for you! Best appreciated in chronology, The Masks Of God is an exhaustive treasure of information; great narrator and relevant editors notes along with the author's own encourages further exploration on many topics related to the book series. Mr Campbell's historical and academic treatment of the subject often reveals quite startling and common trends worldwide in mankind's spiritual journey thus far that has further bolstered my own. My faith has often revealed a higher power that loves & encourages our curiosity and greater understanding of each other, the world around us and the universe beyond. Mr Campbell's work has proven to be insightful and quite enlightening spiritual manna in this area for me but listen for yourself, you won't regret it! Check out his other works as well, all of which belong in everybody's library as far as I'm concerned. He's a brilliant concise writer and academic the world's a little richer for having in it. I first discovered him in a bookstore but have really enjoyed the audibles in which I can listen to while grabbing books from my own study related to the info as I listen along adding to the experience.

The conclusion, just the beginning

I was introduced to Campbell through Power of Myth and 1,000 Faces in college. Figured I’d take a chance on the first of this series and it did not disappoint. A much deeper dive than either, and makes some compelling points that force the listener to pause before continuing on. The conclusion of this book is so well done that I might need to make it alone regular reading. Looking forward to the rest of the series.

Epic speculation into the origins of our mythic consciousness

Although a bit dated in its archeological science I see this book as a must read for any person interested in our primitive origins or in Campbell’s herculean grasp of world mythology. I have been waiting many years for The Masks of God series to be released on audiobook and Arthur Morey does an excellent job bringing new life and nobility to Campbells words. This book is challenging and requires a tough stomach for the passages on the brutal themes of sacrifice and the overall ruthlessness of prehistoric life. Not “nerfed up” for the sensitive new age types or the new "intellectuals" that embrace the current fashion of identity politics but is nourishing for any individual looking for the spiritual truth and wisdom beyond the dogma of religion and tribalism.

You don’t know Campbell until you read and reread The hero with a thousand faces and then the masks of god. The density of metaphor and references is staggering - so much so that I found myself re-listening to passages and chapter, even sentences over and over again. This i have to admit was very frustrating indeed but ultimately was a well earned rewarding experience!

Small sample from the intro to Primitive Mythology below..

”Clearly, mythology is no toy for children. Nor is it a matter of archaic, merely scholarly concern, of no moment to modern men of action. For its symbols (whether in the tangible form of images or in the abstract form of ideas) touch and release the deepest centers of motivation, moving literate and illiterate alike, moving mobs, moving civilizations.”
-Joseph Campbell


Thank you Audible for providing this title!

One of a kind

Joseph Campbell should be required reading for everyone. Amazing author and an essential series to expand your understanding.