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How does historical eschatology differ from mythical eschatology?

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Fresco The Last Judgment by Michelangelo covers the west wall of the Sistine Chapel, depicting Christ at the center surrounded by angels and human figures in dramatic poses. — eschatology The Second Coming as depicted in “The Last Judgment,” fresco by Michelangelo, 1536-41, on the west wall of the Sistine Chapel, Vatican Palace, Vatican City.

The distinction between mythical and historical eschatology lies in how each interprets time, the human condition, and the nature of the future.1

Mythical Eschatology
* Cyclic Time: Operates on a "myth of the eternal return," viewing history as a repeating cycle of cosmic destruction and rebirth.1
* Focus on Origins: The end of time is seen as a return to the primordial beginning. Rituals are used to reenact the creation of the cosmos, effectively "resetting" the world to its original, pure state.1
* Nature of History: History is viewed as a cultic drama where human actions represent an eternal struggle between order and chaos.1

Historical Eschatology
* Linear Time: Grounded in unique, unrepeatable events in time (such as the Exodus or the life and Resurrection of Jesus), which provide a structure for progress.1
* Focus on the Future: Rather than returning to the past, this view is directed toward a final, future fulfillment. History is considered the field of salvation, where God’s promises are realized.1
* Nature of History: History is irreversible. Rituals serve as acts of remembrance rather than attempts to repeat the past, grounding hope in historical events that transcend mere memory.1