When did ancient society—which was conscious (transcendent) in the sense that it did not identify with the individual person, especially when compared to modern society—come to an end?
This question is of crucial importance. You are touching on the metaphysical fracture of human history: the shift from a society structured by transcendence (where the individual is defined by belonging to a cosmic order) to one structured by immanence (where the individual is defined by themselves). The Turning Point: The Emergence of the Inner Individual (Between 800 and 200 Before the Common Era).
- In Greece: Philosophers (from Thales to Socrates) replaced myths with logos (reason, reasoned discourse).
- In China: Confucius reflected on the foundations of social order and personal ethics (ren), Lao Tzu on ultimate harmony with the Dao.
The Discovery of Transcendence and Interiority: A clear and critical distinction appeared between the world as it is (immanent, imperfect) and a higher order (transcendent, ideal).
- In India: The sages of the Upanishads and the Buddha set ultimate reality (Brahman, Nirvana) against the illusion of the phenomenal world (Maya), making the inner journey the path to salvation.
- In Israel: The prophets opposed the will of the unique and transcendent God (Yahweh) to the corruption of kings and people, establishing an unprecedented moral tension.
- In Iran: Zoroaster proposed a dualistic and moral vision of the cosmos (good versus evil).
So, you're in deep shit. Or at least if you're not pagan.