Best Joseph Campbell Books of 2023

• Best Overall: The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell
• Best Budget: Myths to Live By: The Collected Works
• Best Value: Romance of the Grail: The Magic and Mystery
• Editor's Choise: The Masks of God, Vol. 4: Creative Mythology

• Best Stefan Zweig Books
• Best Gary Paulsen Books
• Best Jordan Peterson Books
• The Best Jim Rohn Books
• Best Tim Keller Books 

 #1: Goddesses: Mysteries of the Feminine Divine

Specs:

• Title: Goddesses: Mysteries of the Feminine Divine (Collected Works of Joseph Campbell)
• Author: Joseph Campbell, Safron Elsabeth Rossi (Editor)
• Hardcover: 312 pages
• Publisher: New World Library; Illustrated edition (December 10, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1608681823
• ISBN-13: 978-1608681825

What we like:

• The exceptional book "Goddesses: Mysteries of the Feminine Divine" explores the role of goddesses in mythology and religion. Joseph Campbell, an authority on comparative mythology, offers a thorough examination of the feminine divine and its significance in human culture. The book discusses goddesses from a variety of mythological traditions, such as those of India, Greece, and Egypt.
• The breadth of Campbell's knowledge and his ability to synthesize information from a variety of sources is one of the book's strengths. The writing is engaging and straightforward, making it appropriate for both academics and general readers. The illustrations throughout the book are also lovely and enhance the overall reading experience.

What we don't like:

There are few negative aspects to this book. However, some readers may find the emphasis on goddesses to be limiting, especially if they are seeking a more comprehensive examination of mythology and religion.

Our Verdict:

Overall, "Goddesses: Mysteries of the Feminine Divine" is an excellent book that explores the role of goddesses in human culture in a fascinating manner. It is beautifully written, insightful, and illustrated, making it a pleasure to read. This book is highly recommended to anyone interested in mythology, religion, and the feminine divine.

 #2: Romance of the Grail: The Magic and Mystery of Arthurian Myth

Specs:

• Title: Romance of the Grail: The Magic and Mystery of Arthurian Myth (The Collected Works of Joseph Campbell)
• Author: Joseph Campbell, Evans Lansing Smith (Editor)
• Hardcover: 352 pages
• Publisher: New World Library; Illustrated edition (December 15, 2015)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1608683710
• ISBN-13: 978-1608683713

What we like:

• "Romance of the Grail" is a fascinating book that explores the Arthurian legend's mythology and symbolism. Joseph Campbell, a renowned expert in comparative mythology, provides a comprehensive analysis of the significance of the Grail legend in human culture. The book covers a broad range of topics, including the legend's origins, its relationship to Celtic and Christian mythology, and the various authors' interpretations of it.
• The breadth and depth of Campbell's knowledge is one of the strengths of this book. He provides a comprehensive analysis of the Grail legend based on a variety of sources, including literary works, historical documents, and archeological evidence. The writing is clear and engaging, making it accessible to both academics and non-specialists.

What we don't like:

• Some readers may find the book's narrow focus on the Grail legend restrictive, especially if they are seeking a more comprehensive examination of mythology and religion. In addition, the book is occasionally dense and difficult, which may make it less appealing to casual readers.

Our Verdict:

Overall, "Romance of the Grail" is an excellent book that provides a comprehensive analysis of the Arthurian legend and its cultural significance. Campbell's knowledge is impressive in its breadth and depth, and his writing is clear and engaging. This book is highly recommended to anyone interested in mythology, religion, and the Arthurian legend. Those who are not particularly interested in the legend of the Holy Grail may find the book less appealing.

 #3: The Ecstasy of Being: Mythology and Dance

Specs:

• Title: The Ecstasy of Being: Mythology and Dance (The Collected Works of Joseph Campbell)
• Author: Joseph Campbell
• Hardcover: 208 pages
• Publisher: New World Library (November 21, 2017)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1608685209
• ISBN-13: 978-1608685205

What we like:

• Unique and inspiring, "The Ecstasy of Being" explores the relationship between mythology and dance. Joseph Campbell, a renowned comparative mythology expert, investigates the mythic and symbolic significance of various dance forms and traditions from around the globe. He employs a variety of sources, including literature, art, and anthropology, to provide a thorough analysis of the topic.
• This book is notable for its emphasis on the body and its movements. Campbell emphasizes the ways in which dance can be an effective means of connecting with the divine and attaining ecstasy. The lyrical and poetic language contributes to the overall sense of beauty and awe.

What we don't like:

• There are few negative aspects to this book. However, some readers may find the emphasis on dance to be limiting, especially if they seek a more comprehensive examination of mythology and religion.

Our Verdict:

Overall, "The Ecstasy of Being" is an exceptional book that explores in a novel and illuminating manner the relationship between mythology and dance. Campbell's knowledge and perception are impressive, and his writing is elegant and captivating. This book is highly recommended to anyone interested in mythology, religion, and the expressive arts, especially dance. You will feel inspired and uplifted after reading it.

 #4: Mythic Worlds, Modern Words: Joseph Campbell on the Art of James Joyce

Specs:

• Title: Mythic Worlds, Modern Words: Joseph Campbell on the Art of James Joyce (The Collected Works of Joseph Campbell)
• Author: Joseph Campbell, Edmund L. Epstein (Editor, Foreword)
• Paperback: 200 pages
• Publisher: New World Library (March 8, 2016)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1608684229
• ISBN-13: 978-1608684222

What we like:

• The fascinating book "Mythic Worlds, Modern Words" examines the works of James Joyce through the lens of mythology. Joseph Campbell, a renowned expert in comparative mythology, analyzes Joyce's use of mythic symbols and themes in his writing. The book covers a variety of topics, such as Joyce's use of the Hero's Journey, his exploration of the divine feminine, and his connection to Celtic mythology.
• The breadth and depth of Campbell's knowledge is one of the strengths of this book. His comprehensive analysis of Joyce's writing is based on a wide range of sources, including literary works, historical documents, and his own personal experiences. The writing is clear and engaging, making it accessible to both academics and non-specialists.

What we don't like:

• Some readers may find the emphasis on James Joyce to be limiting, especially if they are not fans of his work or are seeking a more comprehensive examination of mythology and literature. In addition, the book is occasionally dense and difficult, which may make it less appealing to casual readers.

Our Verdict:

Overall, "Mythic Worlds, Modern Words" is an excellent book that provides an original and insightful analysis of the writing of James Joyce. Campbell possesses impressive knowledge and expertise, and his writing is engaging and easily accessible. This book is highly recommended to James Joyce enthusiasts as well as those interested in mythology and literature. Those who are not particularly interested in Joyce's work may find the book less appealing.

 #5: The Hero with a Thousand Faces (The Collected Works of Joseph Campbell)

Specs:

• Title: The Hero with a Thousand Faces (The Collected Works of Joseph Campbell)
• Author: Joseph Campbell
• Hardcover: 432 pages
• Publisher: New World Library; 3rd edition (July 28, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1577315936
• ISBN-13: 978-1577315933

What we like:

• This comparative mythology classic has had a profound impact on the study of literature, religion, and psychology. Joseph Campbell explores the common themes and motifs that appear in myths and legends from around the world, demonstrating how they reflect the universal human experience.
• Campbell's writing is clear and approachable, which is one of the strengths of this book. Despite the subject's complexity, he is able to explain it in a straightforward manner, making it accessible to both scholars and general readers. The book is also well-organized, with clear sections and chapters that make it easy to navigate.

What we don't like:

• Some readers may find the book to be overly focused on the masculine hero archetype, with less attention paid to the roles of women and other marginalized groups in myth and storytelling. In addition, some of the ideas presented in the book may seem dated or constrained by modern standards.

Our Verdict:

"The Hero with a Thousand Faces" has had a profound impact on the study of mythology and literature. Campbell's writing is clear, engaging, and accessible, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers. However, readers should be aware of its limitations, especially its emphasis on the archetype of the masculine hero and its tendency to overlook the experiences of marginalized groups. Despite these limitations, we enthusiastically endorse this book to anyone interested in mythology and storytelling.

• Identify your area of interest: Joseph Campbell wrote on a variety of subjects, including mythology, spirituality, psychology, and philosophy. Choose a book that aligns with your area of interest to make the most of your reading experience.

• Check the edition: Some of Joseph Campbell's books have multiple editions. Check the publication date and edition before making a purchase to ensure that you are getting the latest and most accurate version.

• Read reviews: Before buying a book, read reviews from other readers. This will give you an idea of the book's strengths and weaknesses and help you decide if it's the right fit for you.

• Consider the format: Joseph Campbell's books are available in different formats, including hardcover, paperback, and e-book. Choose a format that works best for you based on your reading preferences.

Why is Joseph Campbell well-known?

Joseph Campbell is widely recognized for his exhaustive research and analysis of comparative mythology and religion. Among his influential works on the subject are The Hero with a Thousand Faces and The Power of Myth.

What is the plot of "The Hero with a Thousand Faces"?

The book "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" examines the recurring themes and archetypes found in myths and stories from various cultures. Campbell referred to this structure as the "hero's journey" and argued that all stories follow a similar format.

What is the focus of "The Power of Myth"?

The book "The Power of Myth" examines the function of mythology in human culture and consciousness. It is based on a series of interviews Campbell gave to journalist Bill Moyers and discusses such topics as the hero's journey, symbolism, and the significance of mythology in contemporary society.

What book should I begin with if I am unfamiliar with Joseph Campbell's work?

If you are unfamiliar with the works of Joseph Campbell, "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" is a good place to begin. It is regarded as a classic and offers an excellent summary of Campbell's ideas.

Are Joseph Campbell's works still relevant?

Yes, the work of Joseph Campbell is still relevant today. His ideas regarding the universality of myth, the hero's journey, and the power of storytelling continue to influence and inspire individuals in numerous fields, including literature, film, and psychology.

Joseph Campbell's works on comparative mythology and religion provide a wealth of knowledge and insight. By following the aforementioned buying guide and reading some of his most popular works, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the role myths and stories play in human culture and consciousness.