Kenneth Burke on Myth

Kenneth Burke on Myth demonstrates the relevance and centrality of Burke's theory of myth to his work as a whole. It presents us with a complete picture of a mind that is comprehensive, compassionate, and, in Burke's own special sense, "comic." For Burke, myth is the chief means by which humanity can come to terms with itself and its own dangerous ideals. As such, myth is not simply primitive or ancient but a vital part of modernity. A special strength of the book is its exploration of how Burke develops the "green" aspect of mythology. In highlighting this aspect of Burke's work, Coupe argues that Burke's theory of myth is urgently contemporary.