Literary notes about mythos (AI summary)
In literature "mythos" functions as a multifaceted term that encompasses foundational narratives, cultural symbolism, and the lens through which religious or cosmic truths are interpreted. Authors use it to suggest that without a deeper spiritual meaning, religious practices risk becoming mere idolatry [1, 2]. It also appears as a marker of creativity and historical continuity, with figures like Plato and Zoroaster serving as embodiments of a common mythic heritage that resonates through various cultures [3, 4, 5]. At times the term is even employed for its poetic quality, evoking charming, ancient stories that traverse both celestial and earthly realms [6, 7, 8]. Ultimately, "mythos" in literature bridges the tangible and the transcendent, inspiring reflections on both human history and the mysteries beyond everyday life [9].
- If this mythos has no spiritual meaning, all religion becomes mere idolatry, or the worship of material things.”
— from The Churches and Modern ThoughtAn inquiry into the grounds of unbelief and an appeal for candour by Vivian Phelips - If this mythos has no spiritual meaning, then all religion becomes mere idolatry, or the worship of material things. "
— from Bible Myths and their Parallels in other Religions
Being a Comparison of the Old and New Testament Myths and Miracles with those of the Heathen Nations of Antiquity Considering also their Origin and Meaning by T. W. (Thomas William) Doane - So he created this mythos as Plato for his own purpose created a vision of Er.[9]
— from VergilA Biography by Tenney Frank - [195:1] "In the life of Zoroaster the common mythos is apparent.
— from Bible Myths and their Parallels in other Religions
Being a Comparison of the Old and New Testament Myths and Miracles with those of the Heathen Nations of Antiquity Considering also their Origin and Meaning by T. W. (Thomas William) Doane - [123:5] In the life of Zoroaster , the law-giver of the Persians , the common mythos is apparent.
— from Bible Myths and their Parallels in other Religions
Being a Comparison of the Old and New Testament Myths and Miracles with those of the Heathen Nations of Antiquity Considering also their Origin and Meaning by T. W. (Thomas William) Doane - The mythos starts in this case [54] with Chaos, Erebos, Eros, and Gaia.
— from The Philosophy of Fine Art, volume 2 (of 4)Hegel's Aesthetik by Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel - Nay: for if that moon could love a mortal, Use, to charm him (so to fit a fancy), All her magic ('tis the old sweet mythos)
— from Robert Browning: How to Know Him by William Lyon Phelps - “‘Tis the old sweet mythos,”—the infant nourished at the father’s breast.
— from A New Atmosphere by Gail Hamilton - One universal mythos, or fable wearing the garb of history, has been the basis of all religions, ancient and modern.
— from Religion in the Heavens; Or, Mythology Unveiled in a Series of Lectures by Logan Mitchell