Description
Joseph Campbell, the legendary mythologist who gave us “The Hero with a Thousand Faces,” brings his profound insight to this captivating collection of folk tales and myths from around the world. “The King and the Corpse” explores timeless stories—from ancient Indian Vetala tales to Arthurian legends—revealing how folklore serves as a mirror to the human psyche’s battle between good and evil. Campbell masterfully decodes these narratives, showing how they reflect universal patterns of psychological and spiritual transformation. Perfect for readers interested in comparative mythology, Jungian psychology, or anyone seeking deeper meaning in traditional stories. This Motilal Banarsidass edition makes Campbell’s transformative scholarship accessible to Indian readers exploring the symbolic language of myth. Whether you’re a student of mythology, a psychology enthusiast, or simply curious about the hidden wisdom in fairy tales and legends, this book offers profound insights into how stories shape our understanding of the soul’s conquest over darkness.
- Publisher : Motilal Banarsidass Publishers (1 January 1999)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 75 pages
- ISBN-10 : 8120816293
- ISBN-13 : 978-8120816299
- Item Weight : 422 g
- Country of Origin : India
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the author of The King and the Corpse?
The King and the Corpse is written by Joseph Campbell, the renowned American mythologist and author of The Hero with a Thousand Faces. Campbell is celebrated for his work in comparative mythology and his ability to reveal universal patterns across diverse cultural narratives.
What is The King and the Corpse book about?
The book explores folk tales and myths from various cultures, including Indian Vetala stories and Arthurian legends, examining how these narratives symbolize the soul’s psychological and spiritual journey in conquering evil. Campbell applies depth psychology to decode the symbolic meanings within these timeless tales.
Is The King and the Corpse available in India?
Yes, The King and the Corpse is available in India through The Bookish Owl at ₹595. This edition is published by Motilal Banarsidass Publishers, a trusted Indian publisher of scholarly works on mythology, philosophy, and religion.
Is this book suitable for students of mythology and psychology?
Absolutely. The King and the Corpse is highly recommended for students of comparative mythology, Jungian psychology, folklore studies, and religious symbolism. Campbell’s accessible writing style makes complex psychological and mythological concepts understandable for both academic readers and general enthusiasts.
What Indian stories are discussed in The King and the Corpse?
The book includes analysis of the Vetala Panchavimshati tales, ancient Indian stories about King Vikram and a corpse possessed by a spirit. Campbell explores these narratives alongside Western myths to demonstrate universal themes in world mythology and their psychological significance.
