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Cover of The Myths and Fables of To-Day

The Myths and Fables of To-Day

Written by Samuel Adams Drake

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FolkloreSuperstition

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About this book

"The Myths and Fables of To-Day" by Samuel Adams Drake is a historical collection focused on contemporary superstitions and their origins, written in the late 19th century. The book explores the persistence and influence of mythology and superstition in modern life, examining cultural practices and beliefs that have been passed down through generations. The opening portion sets the stage for a compelling analysis of how deeply ingrained superstitions continue to shape human behavior and consciousness. At the start of the text, Drake engages readers with a discussion of superstition as a constant presence in human history, arguing that it remains influential even in an enlightened age. He challenges the notion that superstition is solely a relic of the past, illustrating its continued relevance through examples from folklore, childhood stories, and rituals. By invoking significant cultural references, he highlights how common practices, like the celebration of Christmas and the telling of nursery tales, provide insight into the enduring nature of myth and the human penchant for the supernatural. This opening establishes a thought-provoking premise, inviting readers to reconsider the myths that persist in their own lives.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Myths and Fables of To-Day, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • thought-provoking
  • analytical
  • historical

Samuel Adams Drake's "The Myths and Fables of To-Day" is a late 19th-century historical collection that meticulously examines the enduring presence of superstitions in modern life. Challenging the notion that such beliefs are mere relics of the past, Drake argues for their continued influence even in an 'enlightened age.' The book delves into the origins and persistence of various cultural practices and beliefs, tracing their lineage through folklore, childhood stories, and established rituals. By drawing connections between common contemporary phenomena, like Christmas celebrations and nursery tales, and ancient mythological roots, Drake invites readers to critically re-evaluate the pervasive myths shaping human consciousness and behavior.

“Superstition, far from being a banished relic, thrives quietly within the very fabric of our 'enlightened' age.”

Key themes

The Persistence of Superstition
This is the central theme of the book. Drake argues forcefully against the idea that superstition is a relic of the past, asserting its continued, often subtle, influence on modern life, even in an age of scientific progress. He seeks to demonstrate how deeply ingrained these beliefs are in human consciousness and behavior, transcending mere historical curiosity.
Cultural Transmission and Heritage
Drake explores how myths, fables, and superstitions are passed down through generations, shaping collective consciousness and cultural identity. He highlights the mechanisms of this transmission, from oral storytelling to ingrained societal practices, emphasizing that heritage is not just about tangible objects but also about inherited belief systems.
Rationality vs. Belief
The book implicitly, and often explicitly, grapples with the tension between the Age of Enlightenment's emphasis on reason and the enduring human inclination towards irrational or supernatural beliefs. Drake challenges his contemporary readers, who prided themselves on scientific advancement, to acknowledge the persistent sway of non-rational thought.

Worth discussing

How does Drake challenge the notion of an 'enlightened age' in the context of superstition? Is his argument still relevant today?

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