The Referential Function of Myth
- José Manuel Losada Goya (dir.)
- Asun López-Varela Azcárate (dir.)
Publisher: Classiques Garnier
ISBN: 978-2-406-16970-3
Year of publication: 2024
Pages: 23-41
Type: Book chapter
Abstract
Among the functions of myth, the referential one is particularly relevant. After examining it from three angles (textual, categorical, and chronological), this article shows that it materialises in the hermeneutic function according to which scholars should look for the transcendental, sacred referent of each text in the absence of which there is no myth. Cultural myth criticism also includes the different processes of mystification and demystification throughout literary history.