This multidisciplinary study is the first book devoted entirely to the critical interpretation of the writings of Mircea Eliade on myth. One of the most popular and influential historians and theorists of myth, Eliade argued that all myth is religious. Douglas Allen critically interprets Eliade's theories of religion, myth, and symbolism and analyses many of the controversial issues in Eliade's treatment of myth including whether Eliade's approach deals adequately with the relationship between myth and history and how Eliade's anti-modern perspective makes sense of myth in modern culture. A valuable resource for scholars in religious studies, philosophy, anthropology, and history, this book enables readers not only to understand "archaic" and "traditional" religious phenomena, but also to make sense of repressed and sublimated myth dimensions in modern secular life.

About the Author
Douglas Allen is Professor and Chair of the Philosophy department at the University of Maine. He is the author of Structure and Creativity in Religion (1978) and Culture and Self: Philosophical and Religious Perspectives (1997).

Reviews

"Allen's work is a welcome contribution for those who seek a critical appreciation of Eliade's understanding of myth and religion." -Theological Studies."
"Douglas Allen's Myth and Religion in Mircea Eliade is important for its careful revision of this model, this reputation [of the mind's desire for 'eternal return']." -- Religious Studies Review
"Douglas Allen, professor of philosophy at the University of Maine, is the foremost authority on Eliade." -- Theology Digest, Winter 2002

Book Information
ISBN 9780415939393
Author Douglas Allen
Format Paperback
Page Count 396
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 730g