MYTHOLOGY

mindfunda about mythology

Translating Myth: Re-wording the unseen knowledge

In Translating Myth, a collection edited by Ben Pestell, Pietra Palazzolo, and Leon Burnett, the authors tackle the intricate task of defining and exploring the concept of myth from various angles. The book dives deep into how myths are translated across languages, media, and cultures. It examines how myth has been created, interpreted, and re-established in modern contexts, including its connections to politics and poetry. With insights into the works of visionary artists like William Blake and a thoughtful exploration of myth in American literature, this book is an invaluable resource for those fascinated by the intersection of mythology, psychology, and culture. Although the language is scholarly, the book’s content provides a unique perspective on how myths shape and reflect our collective unconscious. Highly recommended for those interested in deepening their understanding of mythology’s role in shaping identity and society.

Translating Myth: Re-wording the unseen knowledge Read More »

Arthur

n this blog, I explore how mythology can illuminate our lives and help us understand the struggles we face, using the Arthurian myth as a central theme. I reflect on how mythology isn’t just a collection of ancient stories but a tool for personal growth, transformation, and healing. One of the most profound moments came when I had a dream where I was told, “You belong to the court of King Arthur,” which changed my perception of myth forever. Through exploring the lessons of King Arthur and the Grail, we learn that mythology is not only about understanding stories, but about solving life’s problems and re-interpreting our own narratives.

In the Mindfunda Mythology course, the lesson “Mythology of the Grail: Pulling Out the Sword” dives into this deeper spiritual meaning. The Grail symbolizes a soul-deep love that helps you navigate life’s trials, such as depression and despair, guiding you back to your true self. By asking the right questions at the right time, as the Arthurian myth suggests, you can find the healing and transformation you need. The course is designed to help you reconnect with mythological themes, such as the Trickster, and integrate them into your personal growth journey. Discover the power of archetypes and mythology, and how these ancient symbols can help you better understand your dreams and life’s challenges.

Arthur Read More »

Ariadne’s Clue, a guide to the symbols of humankind

Ariadne’s Clue by Anthony Stevens is a fascinating guide to the rich world of symbols, mythology, and their psychological significance. In this blog, we explore how symbols, such as Ariadne’s thread, appear in dreams and mythological tales, providing insights into how these images shape human consciousness. Stevens delves into the connection between symbols and the unconscious, drawing from both mythology and evolutionary psychology to make sense of these ancient symbols. Whether you’re interested in dream analysis, mythological symbols, or the collective unconscious, this book is a valuable resource that structures and explains complex ideas in an accessible way.

Ariadne’s Clue, a guide to the symbols of humankind Read More »

Nightmare and Dreams: a presentation for Rivas

Nightmares, though often seen as unsettling, can be blessings in disguise. Research suggests that 6% of the population regularly experiences nightmares, but these dreams carry profound messages. They urge us to make changes, both symbolically and literally. During my presentation for the Dutch Rivas Organisation, I shared insights on the power of dreams and nightmares, and how they connect with waking life.

Nightmares, as unsettling as they can be, often carry a transformative power. They prompt us to confront inner fears or unresolved emotions. My own experiences, as well as those of others, show how dreams—especially nightmares—can serve as catalysts for self-reflection and change. From Kenneth Parks’ tragic case of sleepwalking to the symbolic imagery found in films like Nightmare on Elm Street, nightmares explore the boundary between the waking and dreaming worlds.

Through mindfulness and creative visualization, we can gain control over our nightmares, giving them a better ending and harnessing their power for personal growth. If you’re curious about the deeper connections between dreams, psychology, and the brain, I invite you to explore my online courses on Mindfunda. Together, we can delve into the mysteries of the dream world and transform our nightmares into powerful allies.

Nightmare and Dreams: a presentation for Rivas Read More »

James Joyce: Juicy, Jaunty and Jaded

James Joyce’s work, particularly Ulysses, has deep connections with mythology, as explored in Mythic Worlds, Modern Words: On the Art of James Joyce, edited by Edmund Epstein. The book reflects on how Joseph Campbell’s interpretations of Joyce’s work shaped his understanding of myth and the human psyche. Joyce’s writing often portrays an artist grappling with feelings of being lost in the world, using internal images to create meaning. This duality of inner conflict versus external reality is a recurring theme in his work, especially in A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, which illustrates how pain and self-doubt fuel creativity.

Joyce’s writing also draws on Dante’s Inferno, with Ulysses being likened to Dante’s hell, creating a framework for self-discovery through mythic archetypes. For Joyce, as for Campbell and Dante, the “holy spirit” is often represented by a woman, symbolizing the transformative force of creativity and inspiration. However, while the book focuses on male archetypes, it offers powerful insights into human psychology, mythology, and the artistic journey, helping readers better understand their place in society and their personal quest for meaning.

James Joyce: Juicy, Jaunty and Jaded Read More »

The Redeeming Dark

In this guest blog on Mindfunda, Elaine Mansfield explores the ancient myth of Inanna’s descent—a profound journey into darkness, grief, and rebirth. Inanna, the Sumerian Goddess of Heaven and Earth, listens to the call of the Great Below, symbolizing the necessity of facing life’s darkness to find wisdom, compassion, and renewal. Drawing on her own experiences of loss and grief after her husband’s death, Elaine shares how the descent mirrors the cycles of life, death, and rebirth that we all endure.

The Redeeming Dark Read More »

Inanna: myth of descent

In today’s guest blog, Dr. Jean Raffa explores the myth of Inanna’s descent as a powerful metaphor for psychological and spiritual transformation. Life’s descents—whether caused by grief, existential crises, or personal conflict—mirror Inanna’s journey to the underworld, where she is stripped of her illusions and reborn with wisdom and balance. Discover how descent myths like Inanna’s offer guidance, healing, and renewal in times of darkness.

Inanna: myth of descent Read More »

Mother Earth as Goddess

Awaken the Goddess within and reconnect with the sacred essence of the earth. In this week’s Mindfunda, discover how dreaming with the Goddess, aligned with the phases of the moon, can transform your life. Explore the powerful connections between women and Mother Earth in this guest blog by Trista Hendren, author of The Girl God. Hendren shares her journey of honoring the Goddess by embracing sustainable living, challenging societal norms, and creating a better world for future generations. Learn how to embody the divine feminine, nurture the planet, and inspire transformative change.

Mother Earth as Goddess Read More »

Eve as Goddess

Eve Reimagined: Unlocking the Goddess Within

Do you consider yourself a Goddess? You should—because the Goddess is within us all. Today, Mindfunda delves into a revolutionary view of Eve, the woman often blamed for humanity’s “fall.” In this powerful guest blog by Susan Scott, author of In Praise of Lilith, Eve & the Serpent in the Garden of Eden, we uncover Eve not as a sinner but as a conscious pioneer of growth and transformation.

Explore the symbolism of Eve’s choice, the serpent as a force for change, and the hidden matriarchal wisdom that predates patriarchal narratives. Discover how reclaiming the Goddess can help you reconnect with your inner balance, healing the wounds of repression, and restoring harmony between the feminine and masculine principles.

Join us for this insightful journey through myth, psyche, and spirituality. Together, let’s honor Eve as a catalyst for awakening and rediscover the Divine Feminine within us all.

Read more on the Goddess series and reconnect with your inner Goddess today.

Eve as Goddess Read More »

Your mythic life: mythological musing

ransform your life with insights from Stanley Krippner and David Feinstein’s Personal Mythology. Explore how understanding mythological themes and cultural roots can guide your journey, as Mindfunda’s three-part series dives into rewriting your personal narrative, connecting with ancestral wisdom, and engaging your inner shaman. Discover how to let go of outdated myths and create a life filled with meaning and purpose.

Your mythic life: mythological musing Read More »

Mythological Musings: Discover mythology in your own life

Explore how mythological themes are not just stories from the past but relevant guides for your life today. In Mindfunda’s blog series, discover how mythological motifs, such as the hero’s journey and cultural narratives, shape our personal myths, storytelling, and even modern media. Learn how these ancient themes provide insights for personal growth, resolving crises, and understanding your life’s path. From films like The Matrix to personal life challenges, see how mythology continues to influence and enrich our understanding of the human experience.

Mythological Musings: Discover mythology in your own life Read More »

Persephone or how mythology is still relevant

Discover the timeless relevance of mythology through the story of Persephone, whose life was forever changed by a single gesture. From love and loss to mother-daughter dynamics, myths like Persephone’s hold valuable lessons for our lives today. Join our online Mythology course to explore creation myths, the hero’s journey, and more. Gain insights into your personal mythology and reshape your life’s narrative with new perspectives.

Persephone or how mythology is still relevant Read More »

Verified by ExactMetrics