What was Jung's attitude toward myths?

• A. They were useful guides to development throughout life.
• B. They were mere stories with little practical value.
• C. They distorted individuals' perception of reality.
• D. They were primarily historical artifacts.

Answer: (A)

Jung treated myths as symbolic expressions of archetypes that reside in the collective unconscious. He saw them as living guides to human development, offering timeless patterns we can use to navigate life’s tasks, such as integrating conflicting aspects of the self and moving toward individuation. Because myths embody these deep patterns, they provide practical insight for personal growth, psychotherapy, and everyday understanding of our dreams and inner conflicts.

They aren’t just stories with little value, since their symbols illuminate how people think, feel, and change over time. They aren’t simply distortions of reality; myths reveal underlying processes that help people make sense of their experiences. And they aren’t merely historical artifacts; though rooted in history, myths continue to influence behavior and meaning through their symbolic content.