Presents a study of mythology based on the analysis of nonlinear form, the self's confrontation with its world, and the nature of mythic truth. Drawing on texts world-wide and on many theorists, including Cassirer, Eliade, Jung, Levi-Strauss, and Buber, the book develops a complex view of the relation between consciousness and culture. A conception of nonlinear, or 'qualitative,' logic provides the basis for a survey of mythic space, time, cause, identity, and values, with an emphasis on the experience of wonder through mythic imagery and narrative processes.

Presents a study of mythology based on the analysis of nonlinear form, the self's confrontation with its world, and the nature of mythic truth. Drawing on texts world-wide and on many theorists, including Cassirer, Eliade, Jung, Levi-Strauss, and Buber, the book develops a complex view of the relation between consciousness and culture. A conception of nonlinear, or 'qualitative,' logic provides the basis for a survey of mythic space, time, cause, identity, and values, with an emphasis on the experience of wonder through mythic imagery and narrative processes.