Joseph Campbell

Date of Birth: March 26, 1904

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: October 30, 1987

Biography

Joseph Campbell was an American author, editor, and mythologist renowned for his work in the fields of comparative mythology and comparative religion. He was born in White Plains, New York, and developed an early interest in mythology, Native American culture, and literature. Campbell studied at Columbia University, where he earned his B.A. and M.A. in English literature. His academic pursuits continued with studies in Paris and Munich, where he delved into Arthurian romances and medieval literature. Campbell’s career was marked by his work as a professor at Sarah Lawrence College, where he taught for almost four decades. His seminal work, “The Hero with a Thousand Faces,” published in 1949, introduced his theory of the monomyth, or the “hero’s journey,” which has had a profound impact on literature, film, and popular culture. Campbell’s ability to weave together various myths and stories from different cultures into a cohesive framework has influenced a wide range of creative works, including George Lucas’s “Star Wars.” Throughout his life, Campbell authored numerous books and essays, exploring themes such as the hero’s journey, the power of myth, and the role of the artist in society. He passed away in 1987, but his legacy continues to inspire scholars, writers, and artists around the world.

5 Interesting Facts about Joseph Campbell

1. Joseph Campbell coined the term “monomyth,” which describes a universal template for storytelling found in many cultures.

2. His book “The Hero with a Thousand Faces” has been translated into over 20 languages.

3. Campbell’s work was a significant influence on George Lucas when creating the “Star Wars” saga.

4. He believed that myths are the collective dreams of humanity, reflecting our deepest desires and fears.

5. Campbell’s series of interviews with Bill Moyers, “The Power of Myth,” aired on PBS in 1988 and brought his ideas to a broader audience.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Joseph Campbell

1. “Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors where there were only walls.”

2. “The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek.”

3. “We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”

4. “The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are.”

5. “Myths are public dreams, and dreams are private myths.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While specific figures for Joseph Campbell’s net worth are not readily available, his influence and contributions to literature and mythology have left a lasting legacy that continues to generate interest and revenue through his published works and related media.