Apocalyptic Literature: Mythology

The battle between good and evil is described in images that seem rather mythological. It is a battle between angels and devils, strange beasts and monsters. Even so, the battle is partly fought on earth, and humanity is involved in it. The closer the end comes — the overthrow of the evil world order by the good — the more terrible the situation becomes. All manner of cosmic powers are released: the sea, the earth, and the heavens. Everything plays a part in the dramatic end game of history.

Besides mythological imagery, cryptic descriptions are used to indicate the evil of the moment. One example is “Babylon, the mother of all prostitutes” in the book of Revelation. This refers to the city of Rome.