The individual has to find an aspect of myth that relates to his own life. Myth basically serves four functions. The first is the mystical function - realizing what a wonder the universe is, and what a wonder you are, and experiencing awe before this mystery. Myth opens the world to the dimension of mystery, to the realization of mystery that underlies all forms. The second is a cosmological dimension, the dimension with which science is concerned - showing you what the shape of the universe is, but showing it in such a way that the mystery again comes through. The third function is the sociological one - supporting and validating a certain social order. Here's where the myths vary enormously from place to place. The fourth function of myth, and this is the one that I think everyone must try today to relate to - and that is the pedagogical function, of how to live a human lifetime under any circumstances. Myths can teach you that.

The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell