“The myth is the public dream and the dream is the private myth”
— Joseph Campbell
Simplified Meaning:
Myths are like shared stories everyone knows and believes in, while dreams are personal stories that we create in our own minds. Think of it like a famous movie everyone talks about versus a dream you had last night that only you know. Just as a myth helps a community understand the world, your dreams help you understand yourself. For example, the ancient Greek myths explain natural events and human behavior. One might dream of flying and feel limitless, which could show their desire for freedom in their private life. Understanding this can help someone pay attention to their dreams for personal insights or inspiration, just as society looks at myths for common values and guidance. In everyday life, this means when you dream, you create a personal story that can reflect your hopes and fears. Meanwhile, myths, like legends or popular stories, shape how we see the world and what we believe in. By thinking about both, you can better understand your own mind and the world around you.