Magical mythical men

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Michael Gaski (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Fred Chappell

Abstract: This thesis is divided into two sections, both of which center on myth and mysticism. Polyphemus: Book One is the opening section of a lengthy prose-poem. The young cyclops, overwrought with adolescence, not only is confronted with the new-found knowledge of his own monsterhood, but also learns of the threatening existence of mankind. His two friends, Telemos, the seer, and Palos, the Lotus-Eater, are both mystics and priests in their respective religions; and though they can and do provide Polyphemus with knowledge of the past and the future, the ever-present questions of blindness, helplessness, and godlessness are left for the monster to solve. The first chapter of Magicians and Brothers is one of five "portraits" that will appear throughout the novel, of and by different characters. The novel itself is based on an American Indian myth. In this chapter young Philip Kysela is immersed in the mystery of a religious ceremony that he cannot understand. Chapter two begins the narrative of the novel, as an older and highly educated Philip struggles to free himself from the priesthood and guilt of one religion only to become involved with one more mysterious.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Language: English
Date: 1976

Email this document to