'Christian Mythology' Summary

In "Christian Mythology," Ethel Brigham Leatherbee argues that Christianity, rather than being a unique revelation, is a product of historical development and cultural influence. She argues that the core tenets of Christianity, including the life of Jesus, are not entirely unique but share striking parallels with pre-Christian mythologies and religious systems. Leatherbee meticulously compares Christian beliefs and practices to those found in ancient civilizations, focusing on the figure of Jesus as a symbolic representation of the sun god common to many cultures. She analyzes Christian dogmas, rituals, and ceremonies, tracing their origins to pagan customs and highlighting how these elements were incorporated into Christianity over time. Through this comparative approach, Leatherbee presents a compelling argument that Christianity, like other religions, is a product of human invention and cultural evolution, shaped by the historical and social contexts in which it emerged.