Jii Mith Mithliterary Theorists Rene Wellek And Austin Warre

382 Jii Mithmithliterary Theorists Rene Wellek And Austin Warren Note

Identify the core concepts of myth as discussed by various theorists, including Rene Wellek, Austin Warren, Hart, Richard Slotkin, and others. Explain how myth functions in cultural, literary, and political contexts, providing examples such as the Greek pantheon, American symbols, and national narratives. Analyze the different types of myths—cosmological, societal, identity, and eschatological—and their roles in shaping collective consciousness and public discourse. Discuss how myths, despite advances in science and rationality, persist in modern culture and influence media, politics, and societal beliefs. Incorporate scholarly perspectives, historical examples, and the significance of myth in contemporary rhetorical studies.

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The concept of myth has fascinated scholars across diverse disciplines, including literature, anthropology, sociology, psychoanalysis, and rhetoric. René Wellek and Austin Warren, in their seminal work Theory of Literature (1956), emphasized the fluidity of myth, describing it as an "area of meaning" shared by various cultural and intellectual domains. They argued that myth transcends simplistic definitions like falsehood or fiction; instead, it functions as a shared symbolic framework that helps societies understand their origins, values, and destinies.

In rhetorical studies, myth plays a pivotal role, functioning as a tool for persuasion, identity formation, and cultural cohesion. Hart (1997) conceptualized myths as "master stories" that depict exceptional individuals serving as moral archetypes. He emphasized that even allusions or metaphors tapping into mythic narratives can evoke powerful collective memories and values. For instance, references to heroic deeds or legendary figures in political speeches often serve to reinforce shared cultural ideals, creating a sense of unity and purpose among audiences.

Richard Slotkin's influential analysis (1992) expanded the understanding of myth by illustrating how stories rooted in society's history evolve into symbols of ideology and moral consciousness. He highlighted that myths often originate as explanations for human origins, social order, and moral standards, which acquire enduring significance through cultural persistence. Slotkin's exploration of the myth of the frontier exemplifies this, as the narrative of westward expansion and savagery versus civilization has become central to American identity. This myth promotes the idea of progress through conquest of the wilderness and embodies the recurring theme of renewal after chaos.

Similarly, myths are crucial in individual and collective identity formation. Hart (1997) identified four types—cosmological, societal, identity, and eschatological—for their distinct functions. Cosmological myths answer questions about origins and existence, such as the story of Adam and Eve. Societal myths, like the tale of George Washington and the cherry tree, serve instructive purposes concerning moral and ethical conduct. Identity myths forge a shared sense of belonging, exemplified by the American myth of innocence during the Vietnam War era. Eschatological myths, which predict future salvation or doom, are exemplified by Christian notions of heaven and hell.

The myth of the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, underscoring themes of liberation and divine guidance, exemplifies the profound influence of myth in shaping religious, social, and political narratives. Walzer (1985) traced the origin of Western political thought to this narrative, emphasizing its role in shaping concepts of liberation, justice, and nationhood. Justice Hugo Black's opinion in Everson v. Board of Education (1947) subtly invoked the exodus myth by framing American constitutional principles within a story of journey from persecution to liberation, echoing the Biblical narrative.

In American history, the myth of the frontier has been instrumental in constructing national identity. Slotkin (1992) argued it encapsulates the idea that progress stems from the challenge of taming the wilderness, promoting a cycle of civilization, decline, and renewal. This myth fueled historical narratives of expansion, manifest destiny, and the heroic exploits of pioneers. Politicians like John F. Kennedy invoked the frontier myth in speeches urging Americans to "conquer new frontiers," exemplifying its enduring power to inspire collective ambition.

Beyond historical and political narratives, myths also manifest in cultural anxieties, such as the Frankenstein myth, which symbolizes humanity’s fear of technological hubris. Rushing and Frentz (1995) interpret this myth as part of the "myth of the hunter," depicting the modern quest for power and identity through technological mastery. The narrative of Victor Frankenstein embodies the peril of uncontrolled scientific innovation, a motif reflected in contemporary media like films Blade Runner and The Terminator. These stories function as cautionary tales that articulate societal fears about machine autonomy and the dehumanization resulting from technological advancement.

Myths persist in society despite scientific progress, rooted in their emotional appeal and their capacity to condense complex societal values into memorable stories. They influence political discourses, media representations, advertising, and institutional narratives. Scholars like McGee (1975), Edelman (1971), and Bass & Cherwitz (1978) have documented the pervasive presence of mythic elements in political rhetoric and public symbolism. For example, political campaigns often draw on mythic themes of heroism, sacrifice, and destiny to mobilize supporters and legitimize policies.

In sum, myth remains a vital concept in contemporary rhetorical and cultural analysis due to its enduring ability to structure collective understanding and motivate social action. From ancient religious stories to modern political legends, myths serve as cognitive maps thatprovide coherence and meaning across generations. Recognizing the mythic dimension of discourse allows scholars to better interpret the symbols and narratives that shape societal values, institutions, and identities in an ever-changing cultural landscape.

References

• Barthes, R. (1972). Mythologies. Hill & Wang.
• Bennett, W. L. (1980). Myth, ritual, and political control. Journal of Communication, 30, 20–29.
• Fisher, W. R. (1973). Reaffirmation and subversion of the American Dream. Quarterly Journal of Speech, 59, 5–21.
• Hart, R. P. (1997). Modern rhetorical criticism. Allyn & Bacon.
• Kertzer, D. I. (1988). Ritual, politics, and power. Yale University Press.
• Slotkin, R. (1992). Gunfighter nation: The myth of the frontier in twentieth-century America. Atheneum.
• Rushing, J. H., & Frentz, T. S. (1995). Projecting the shadow: The cyborg hero in American film. University of Chicago Press.
• Wellek, R., & Warren, A. (1956). Theory of literature. Harcourt Brace.
• Walzer, M. (1985). Exodus and revolution. Basiie Books.
• Weiss, R. (1969). The American myth of success: From Horatio Alger to Norman Vincent Peale. Basic Books.