A Short History of Myth
Human beings have always been mythmakers. Theologian Armstrong here investigates myth: what it is, how it has evolved, and why we still so desperately need it. She takes us from the Paleolithic period and the myths of the hunters, up to the Great Western Transformation of the last five hundred years and the discrediting of myth by science. The history of myth is the history of humanity, our stories and beliefs, our curiosity and attempts to understand the world, which link us to our ancestors and each other.
”Visionary … a crisp and lucid exploration of myth-making.” – David Mitchell, Sunday Herald
”Elegantly argued and consistently thought-provoking.” – David Flusfeder, Daily Telegraph
”With characteristic incisiveness, Armstrong explores the development of myth from prehistory to the present day.” – Daily Mail
”Canongate launches its series with small beautiful books by three wise women. Karen Armstrong provides a critical rationale for the project.” – Observer
”With her succinct, thoughtfully elucidate A Short History of Myth, religious historian Karen Armstrong supplies the brilliant anchor for Canongate’s vast new series.” – Elle
”Witty, informative and contemplative.” – New York Times
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Karen Armstrong
Karen Armstrong’s (born 1944) first book, the bestselling Through the Narrow Gate (1981), described her seven years as a nun in a Roman Catholic order. She has since published numerous bestselling books, including A History of God (1993) and The Great Transformation (2007). She is a freelance writer and she lives in London.
The Myths
Canongate Myth Series. ”The Myths is a long-term global publishing project where some of the world's most respected authors re-tell myths in a manner of their own choosing.”
The Myths consists of 3 total books. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.
