Theory and Practice of Myth

A while back Alex suggested that this class should follow up on the Jeff Bridges theme by discussing Tron at some point.  I concur, though it’s a tougher target than Lebowski.

We could start here: Jung in Tron.

I’ll add for now that the 20 year paternal absence is reminiscent of Odysseus/Telemachus; and the linked piece’s suggestion that “the grid is allegorical to the collective unconscious” seems worth thinking about.  One the other hand, the piece also demonstrates pretty effectively how quickly one can start to see connections everywhere (everywhere!), especially when applying an eclectic or all-encompassing philosophy (Jung and Buddhism, amongst others).

Still, since we now exist to a disorienting degree as digital beings (I’m serious about that), a technological understanding of myth might be the most important aspect of a class like this.

Tron also has the merit of connecting the discussion to what will soon be the dominant global story telling medium: the video game.

And then there’s the question of whether technology gives rise to a new mythology, or whether we still see things according to the same old patterns.