This book investigates the fundamental nature of myth, questioning how it functions as a cross-cultural phenomenon and why its definition remains so contested in modern discourse. The authors, Gregory Schrempp and Tok Thompson, utilize their expertise in folklore and anthropology to synthesize the intellectual history of mythological study. They provide a structured framework that examines the intersection of myth with religion, science, and contemporary popular culture, offering readers a comprehensive toolkit for academic analysis.

Scholars and students frequently identify this text as a foundational introduction for those entering the field of folklore and mythology. Experts highlight the book's utility as a pedagogical tool that successfully bridges complex theoretical concepts with accessible, clear prose.