The Myth of the Eternal Return

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1949

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Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Foreword-Chapter 1, Section 3

Chapter 1, Sections 4-7

Chapter 2, Section 1

Chapter 2, Sections 2-3

Chapter 3, Sections 1-2

Chapter 3, Sections 3-4

Chapter 4

Key Figures

Themes

Index of Terms

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

What are some of the primary features of ancient ontology? How does it compare to modern ontology? Eliade writes that an understanding of ancient ontologies can be instructive. Why? Do you agree with him? Why or why not?

What is the difference between sacred and profane time? What is the practical value of this distinction, and what other distinctions does it relate to (for example, purification versus regeneration)?

In what sense is Judeo-Christian theology a stopgap between archaic ontology and modern philosophy? In what sense does it remain anti-historical?