Dr. Jody Bower: Barbie, Post-Heroic Activism, and the Heroine's Journey

Cultural mythologist Dr. Jody Bower offers her wisdom and keen insight into the evolution of the Heroine's Journey and how it is distinct from that of the hero. Dr. Bower is the author of two books:

Jane Eyre's Sisters: How Women Live and Write the Heroine's Story and

The Princess Powers Up: Watching the Sleeping Beauties Become Warrior Goddesses

In this episode of the Mythic podcast, we touch on a range of topics such as

• the changing role of love in the hero myth, including Marvel superheroes

• Barbie

• The Color Purple

• Hero-dad Pedro Pascal in The Mandalorian

• the problem with the hero archetype in activism and politics

• the unique process through which non-binary people individuate

Toward the end of the interview, Jody shares about her near-death experience and other mysteries of life.

Enjoy!

Key Moments

• 02:08 - Jody's origin story
• 07:53 - Love, heroes, and villains in Marvel movies. From I to we.
• 14:24 - Barbie's individuation
• 19:00 - Heroic thinking and social activism. Myths of The Fall and Progress.
• 30:18 - The Heroine's Journey
• 38:57 - Non-binary individuation
• 41:46 - 5 Questions

Relevant Links

• The Virgin's Promise | Book by Kim Hudson
• Maureen Murdock | Author of The Heroine's Journey: Woman's Quest for Wholeness
• Christine Downing - Wikipedia
• Jody Bower's Website
• Amazon.com: Jody Gentian Bower: books, biography, latest update

Music composed by Kevin MacLeod

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