Landscapes of the Sacred: Myths- Mary Ragan

Earlier in the semester we read and talked about myths and talked a little bit about them in class today. We talked some about the hermeneutical circle in which we begin by believing in myths and then we go through demythologization and then are again restored to wonder in which myth becomes a symbol. I think the idea that myth that's understood is no longer myth is interesting. Myths are not meant to be understood or figured out but are meant to project a sense of wonder. They are meant to just be accepted. There cannot be scientific explanations for everything. Myths are meant to "exercise a formative power upon us" (p. 24). The mystery of the myths is what allows them to continue on, to make people continue to wonder, continue to be curious and in awe. Professor Redick talked about the Campfire Story today and how the park no longer wanted the rangers to tell it because they want to be mainly historical. However, Professor Redick was trying to convey that even if this is the case, the myth still has power and should not be discounted. I think that myths can be so beneficial because they make us use our imagination and search or believe something deeper.