The Myth Model

Abstract

I define myth, discuss how some prominent scholars have used the term and introduce the “myth model,” which I developed to help readers see how myths inform our various aspects of culture. The myth model takes a myth, discusses its manifestations in psychoanalytic theory and suggests how the myth can be applied to historical experience, elite culture, popular culture and everyday life. I use the myth model to deal with the Biblical story of Adam and Eve and the Oedipus myth. I also discuss with the narrative nature of myth, the way myths can be found in different genres and the gratifications that various genres provide.