MYTHOLOGY
What are myths? Myths are: stories that reflect the culture and beliefs of a society and explain natural phenomena (storms, earthquakes, seasons) by using powerful gods and magical creatures. A whole group of a culture’s myths are called a mythology and they are sacred to a culture as they are associated with ancient religious beliefs.
How are myths different from legends? A legend usually includes an element of truth, or is based on historic facts, but with 'mythical qualities'. Legends usually involve heroic characters or fantastic places and often encompass the spiritual beliefs of the culture in which they originate. Myths are not based on fact.
Why did people create myths? Myths, in many ways, are the first stories a culture every created. They had many uses for the people that told them: To explain natural phenomena or natural occurrences. To explain the creation of the world and mankind. To teach people moral lessons. To explain some historical event. To explain some ancient religious practices. To reveal the common hopes and fears of mankind.
What cultures created myths? All cultures have myths, and in fact, many myths have shared very common story elements and themes. A pantheon of gods and goddesses that control the universe and created mankind. Greek: Zeus, Hera, Hades, Demeter, etc. Norse: Thor, Odin, Loki, Freya, etc. Egyptian: Osiris, Isis, Seth, Horus, etc. A Hero who battles evil is often a central element that mythologies from around the world share. Explaining the unknown through the actions of gods, goddesses, supernatural creatures, and heroes.
Elements of Mythology Myths usually have a religious sense, wherein people worship a god or goddess. Ex. People praying to Zeus and offering sacrifices. Myths try to explain the universe, nature, or natural phenomena. Example: Apollo, the son of Zeus, drove the chariot of the sun across the sky. This would explain how the sun rises everyday.
Elements of Mythology, Cont. Myths generally contain Gods and/or Goddesses as central characters. Ex. Zeus is a common character in Greek Mythology Myths generally contain a hero, or god, on a quest/adventure. Ex. Hercules having to accomplish 12 impossible tasks to atone for a crime; the myth is known as the 12 labors of Hercules.
Elements of Mythology, Cont. Myths generally contain some elements of magic, or magical items. Ex. The god Hades uses a magic helmet that makes it’s wearer invisible. Ex. Thor’s hammer, Mjolnir, has many magical properties that make it an ideal weapon for a god. Myths generally contain some sort of transformation. Ex. Zeus changes into the form of animals many times to escape the anger of his wife Hera.
Gods and Goddesses They are often the main characters of myths; as either protagonists or antagonists. They are immortal and superhuman, demonstrating supernatural abilities. They often disguise themselves when they interact with mortals. They demonstrate human emotions and needs. They often have children with mortals, who are called demi-gods. These demi-gods usually have some supernatural ability, but are mortal.
Common Structures/Themes found in Mythology The Hero’s Quest The Dominance of Fate The Danger of Arrogance and Hubris(Excessive Pride) Reward for Goodness and Punishment of Wrongdoing Beauty Love Bloodshed leads to more bloodshed
Impact of Myths Mythology has had a lasting impact on each culture that it has come from. Western culture has been profoundly influenced by Greek and Roman mythology. Literature has often used themes, structures, and motifs that were first explored in mythology. Movies, TV shows, and comics use or base characters off of those found in mythology. Superman and Batman are examples of the type of hero you would find in mythology. Sports teams, cars, and brands have used mythology as a source of inspiration. Names of planets, constellations, and space programs/satellites have drawn inspiration from mythology.