William G. Doty (scholar)

William G. Doty (1939-2010) was an American scholar of mythology, comparative religion, and cultural studies. He is best known for his work on the theory and interpretation of myth, particularly his book Mythography: The Study of Myths and Rituals (1986), which became a standard textbook in the field.

Doty received his Ph.D. from Drew University. He taught at several institutions, including Rutgers University, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and the University of Alabama. His academic work encompassed a wide range of topics, reflecting an interdisciplinary approach that drew upon psychoanalysis, structuralism, post-structuralism, and other critical perspectives.

Mythography provides a comprehensive overview of different approaches to myth interpretation, ranging from classical theories (e.g., Frazer, Jung) to more contemporary methods. It emphasizes the contextual and cultural situatedness of myths and the importance of recognizing their multiple meanings. Beyond Mythography, Doty wrote extensively on topics such as gender and mythology, the cultural functions of stories, and the application of mythic analysis to contemporary media and social phenomena. He also explored the role of mythology in popular culture.

Doty's work is characterized by its accessibility and its commitment to making complex theoretical ideas understandable to a broad audience. He aimed to bridge the gap between academic scholarship and public understanding of myth and its significance in human life. His writings continue to be influential in the fields of mythology, religious studies, and cultural criticism.