Four Functions of Mythology

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John Campbell, a well-known scholar in mythology, has identified four functions of myths. He analyzed that stories of heroes and legends across different cultures and with varying beliefs and traditions still have the same elements. However, these elements cannot be classified under one particular function as they perform four functions that are defined by John Campbell.

Mystical Function

This function defines that we should realize the wonders of the universe; it helps us awaken the mystery and wonders of creation around the world. This function enables us to open our minds and helps make us aware of the mystical ‘ground if being’.

As illustrated in the movie, the enemy was the Kraken that was a sea monster who possessed great strength and power and was also huge is based on Greek mythology, as we may not witness any such creation in today’s modern world yet myths of historical traditions and beliefs are being portrayed in movies of recent times.

Cosmological Function

This function defines the shape of the cosmos, the universe and the total world. This enables us to think that these myths become alive to us.

Everything in the universe has its place, meaning, and significance. Cosmological function as it deals with the shape of the universe is, therefore, more related to the science of the world; this cosmology must be in relevant to the actual experiences, knowledge and mentality of the culture and should not deviate from the original beliefs if the society that initiated the tradition.

According to the movie, the worldly acts of humans have an impact on the gods, and their prayers are crucial for making them stay alive.

Sociological Function

The sociological function has its grounds on the fact that the culture followed by people should be based on rules and laws; it must not deviate from the moral code and ethics to ensure that humankind is not negatively affected.

People must distinguish between right and wrong so that no one is harmed. It can be defined as the validation and establishment of a specific order, which helps us by teaching the way we should behave in society while meeting our responsibilities.

Pedagogical Function

A pedagogical function, which can also be referred to as a psychological function, states that humans experience different stages in life that start from their birth and end at their death, after which their life hereafter begins.

This function defines the way a human should live his life in varying circumstances that he tends to experience at different stages. Individuals must reconcile their conscientiousness with the universe’s will to ensure success.

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