Cultural mythologist Dr. Jody Bower offers her wisdom and keen insight into the evolution of the Heroine's Journey and how it is distinct from that of the hero. Dr. Bower is the author of two books:Jane Eyre's Sisters: How Women Live and Write the Heroine's Story andThe Princess Powers Up: Watching the Sleeping Beauties Become Warrior GoddessesIn this episode of the Mythic podcast, we touch on a range of topics such as• the changing role of love in the hero myth, including Marvel superheroes• Barbie• The Color Purple• Hero-dad Pedro Pascal in The Mandalorian• the problem with the hero archetype in activism and politics• the unique process through which non-binary people individuateToward the end of the interview, Jody shares about her near-death experience and other mysteries of life.Enjoy!Key Moments02:08 - Jody's origin story07:53 - Love, heroes, and villains in Marvel movies. From I to we.14:24 - Barbie's individuation19:00 - Heroic thinking and social activism. Myths of The Fall and Progress.30:18 - The Heroine's Journey38:57 - Non-binary individuation41:46 - 5 QuestionsRelevant LinksThe Virgin's Promise | Book by Kim HudsonMaureen Murdock | Author of The Heroine's Journey: Woman's Quest for WholenessChristine Downing - WikipediaJody Bower's WebsiteAmazon.com: Jody Gentian Bower: books, biography, latest updateMusic composed by Kevin MacLeodHow You Can Support the ShowShare it with friends and on social mediaLeave a review wherever you get your podcasts.Become a patron by making a one-time contribution or sustaining subscriberSupport Mythic