2. We need myths that will identify the individual not with his
local group but with the planet. Joseph Campbell, The Power of Myth
Star Trek mythology fulfills this need, and more by helping us see
what is possible for human kind as a race. Star Trek is the most
prominent and viable modern mythology for several reasons. It has
become so engrained in western psychology, and the technology we
are seeing today may be a by-product of inspiration from minds like
Gene Roddenberry. Mythology, in order to be an effective means of
delivering higher goals for the conduct of those who believe in its
strength, has to teach a better way of being human. Looking at the
longevity and popularity of the series, with all of the
possibilities presented to us becoming acceptable and attainable
the closer we get to the future, it becomes apparent that western
civilization has accepted and incorporated this mythology into our
culture.
3. WHERE NO MAN HAS GONE BEFORE When we watched this episode in
week 2, we looked at the context of this episode in terms of human
response to power, and whether that could be a corruptive force.
Philosophical themes of this nature, which make us consider eternal
questions concerning human potential, were the status quo for Star
Trek. This was especially due to the influence of modern humanist
philosophy, reaching its height in the 1960s. All valid mythology
systems contain philosophical branches as the means to teach
different groups, but the roots are always in our need to emulate
an archetype this seems to be how our minds are created to gain
wisdom. The archetypes presented in Star Trek are timeless, and
ancient truths are re-told in modern form, cloaked in a context
that is more palatable because it is on another level and portrays
humans in a god-like (but without inherent supernatural abilities)
manner in their advancements.
4. VULCAN MYTHOLOGY The Vulcan race was portrayed as having a
strong historical connection with mythology. Much of this was
borrowed from classic Greek mythology, with the name Vulcan meaning
God of Fire. This name was chosen to symbolize that this had once
been a very passionate and war- like race, that nearly destroyed
itself. The Vulcans overcame this flaw by becoming highly rational
beings, and developing meditative and other techniques to subdue
their volatile emotions. They were portrayed as being superior to
humanity to an extent, and certainly seemed to feel that way,
except for Spock, who was half human.
5. SOCIAL ANALOGIES DERIVED FROM MYTH Some of Star Treks
greatest moments were when the writers portrayed pressing social
issues, such as race and gender inequality, in a format that was
almost allegorical since it was set in a completely different
context. Much of classic mythology follows this pattern of
storytelling using improbable and unbelievable situations, to speak
of taboo subjects, which are usually based on ignorance. The goal
of mythology is to teach us proper conduct, but in a way that
appeals to our inner child, who instinctively knows when it is
hearing the truth.
6. MYTHOLOGY AND SYMBOLISM Although the symbol which we now
easily identify with Star Trek has evolved over time, it presents a
valuable tie with the mythology itself. Mythology is heavily based
on symbolism, and humans still respond strongly to symbolic images,
regardless of context.
7. ELEMENTS OF MYTHOLOGY: THE HEROES The heroes of Star Trek
are very recognizable to most people, especially Kirk and Picard,
who represent the epitome of heroism within the context of their
culture and environment. They, along with the members of their
crews, demonstrate some of the highest forms of human evolution,
including tolerance, justice, desire for peace, and supreme mental
discipline combined with moral fortitude. Some of these heroes have
followed the classic Heroes Journey path, especially Kirk. He was
an imperfect hero, whos flaws were portrayed as something which
kept him human, with passions and desires. In terms of embodying a
classic hero figure, none of these people would necessarily be
someone we would emulate, but we can look up to them and admire
their ability to make the tough decision, and do the right thing on
a consistent basis.
8. ELEMENTS OF MYTHOLOGY: THE VILLAINS The villain element is
very prominent in Star Trek from the original series through the
latest blockbuster film installment. While it is not necessarily
the heroes (captains & crew) prime directive or divine purpose
to vanquish the evil that exists in the universe, it is an
important aspect in retaining our essential humanity while facing
of the unknown. The god-like, all powerful type villain is seen in
the character Q, and to a lesser extent in the Borg Queen. Both of
these beings do not seem evil in the traditional mythological
sense, but they do prey upon what they perceive to be human
weakness. In both instances, the heroes prevailed against seemingly
insurmountable odds, by the virtues of courage, brotherhood, and
steadfastness.
9. DARMOK: A TRIBUTE TO THE CROSS-CULTURAL IMPORTANCE OF
MYTHOLOGY In this episode of Star Trek the Next Generation, Picard
encounters a race of beings so firmly entrenched in mythology,
their language is entirely based on metaphors derived from it.
Picard relates to an important member of this race while they are
both forced to work together to defeat an evil foe. By actively
incorporating mythology, the creators of Star Trek have, since its
inception, managed to successfully promote the continuance of
certain important precepts found in ancient myth-based belief
systems, while creating a new paradigm for future generations. As
with most aliens in science-fiction, the Tamarians [Star Trek
characters] serve as mirrors for ourselves, reminding us of the
importance of myths, metaphors, and storytelling in our lives while
demonstrating how ingenuity, determination, and receptiveness can
help defuse conflict, bridge gaps, further understanding across
different worldviews. Source: www.ekostories.com
10. Works Cited: Campbell, Joseph, and Bill D. Moyers. The
Power of Myth. New York: Doubleday, 1988. Print. "Of Myths and
Metaphors: Star Trek TNG's Darmok." Ekostories. 14 Nov. 2013. Web.
27 June 2015. Where No Man Has Gone Before. Star Trek: The Original
Series. NBC Sep. 22 1966. Television. Darmok. Star Trek: The Next
Generation. NBC Sep. 30 1991. Television.