A mythical place: A conversation on the earthly aspects of myth

Abstract

The concept of myth is far from foreign to geographical research, yet its definition and use has been both varied and assumed, leaving much of its potential geographically unexplored. Myths – naturalised stories which reflect ideology, alleviate anxiety, and guide everyday practices – instil place with meaning. Following the tradition within human geography of engaging with issues intersecting perception and place, this paper suggests that to further develop the concept of myth in and through human geography may help advance central disciplinary themes centring on issues of naturalisation and transformation of societal beliefs and, by extension, place.