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This Way to the Stars: A History of the Hero
Heroes.
They have been with us since the beginning. Their stories shaped our ancestors. Their journeys tell timeless truths about the fundamental nature of being. And their myths have always moved us—pointing us toward what it means to be good and live well.
By spending time with them, we are ennobled. By studying their way, we see how we might join this invisible community of those dedicated to the True, Good, and Beautiful.
In A History of the Hero , Huisman first outlines the Hero’s Way—a model of adventure and transformation running through hero myths that individuals can use as a map for self-development. Huisman then traces the development of the Western ideal through the stories of the Ancient and Medieval Worlds. We follow Gilgamesh on his search for immortality, Odysseus through the high seas, Aeneas out of a fallen Troy, David confronting Goliath, the Knights of the Roundtable on their quest for the Holy Grail, and many more.
Rooted in a retelling true to the original sources, Huisman’s book is both a reference book for scholars of all ages and a tool for anyone seeking the transcendent.
Where better to learn of the Light than from those closest to it?
This way, to the stars.
Ad lucem.
They have been with us since the beginning. Their stories shaped our ancestors. Their journeys tell timeless truths about the fundamental nature of being. And their myths have always moved us—pointing us toward what it means to be good and live well.
By spending time with them, we are ennobled. By studying their way, we see how we might join this invisible community of those dedicated to the True, Good, and Beautiful.
In A History of the Hero , Huisman first outlines the Hero’s Way—a model of adventure and transformation running through hero myths that individuals can use as a map for self-development. Huisman then traces the development of the Western ideal through the stories of the Ancient and Medieval Worlds. We follow Gilgamesh on his search for immortality, Odysseus through the high seas, Aeneas out of a fallen Troy, David confronting Goliath, the Knights of the Roundtable on their quest for the Holy Grail, and many more.
Rooted in a retelling true to the original sources, Huisman’s book is both a reference book for scholars of all ages and a tool for anyone seeking the transcendent.
Where better to learn of the Light than from those closest to it?
This way, to the stars.
Ad lucem.
400 pages, Paperback
Published October 16, 2023
4 people want to read
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July 2, 2025
Took me a little bit but really enjoyed this one. Huisman outlines the scaffolding used to build the classic “hero’s story” and then traces the history of myth from Ancient Mesopotamia through modern day. With this foundation set, we delve into how these myths shape values/ideals and allowed our earliest ancestors to contextualize their humanity and growing spirituality within the larger world - perhaps something many of us still grapple with today. Sharply written and filled with truth, passion, and hope - worth the read!
Displaying 1 of 1 review