The Jesus Problem: A Restatement of the Myth Theory

by J. M. (John Mackinnon) Robertson

"The Jesus Problem: A Restatement of the Myth Theory" by J. M. Robertson is a scholarly work that engages with religious and mythological analysis, written in the early 20th century. The book investigates the idea that the figure of Jesus as depicted in the Gospels is largely a mythical construct rather than a historical person. It aims to restate and clarify the myth theory in relation to Jesus and Christianity while critiquing previous attempts to establish the historicity of Jesus. The opening of the text presents an overview of the author's approach to the "myth-theory," which posits that the Gospel narratives are not based on historical accounts of Jesus's life but rather on earlier religious myths and narratives. Robertson outlines the critical failures of past scholarship in establishing any historical basis within the Gospels. He explains that the book will succinctly compile various mythological perspectives regarding Jesus's story, arguing against the notion that a historical figure underpinned the myth. Throughout this opening section, the author's intention to engage with both historical criticism and comparative mythology is made clear, setting the stage for a thorough examination of how religious narratives are constructed and perpetuated over time.