1. Myth that explains why the world is the way it isA traditional story, passed down through generations, that explains why the world is the way it is.

2. Myths represent religious (mystical or spiritual) points of view.Myths represent religious (mystical or spiritual) points of view. Non-scientificNon-scientific

3. According to scholar Joseph Campbell: Four purposes of myth:

4. 1. To instill a sense of awe toward the mysteries of the universe.

5. 2. To explain the workings of the natural world.

6. 3. To support and validate social customs. “ Mythology defines a culture's perceptions of the world and reality, and the meaning behind the actions and symbols represented throughout daily life.” –(Gill, S. D. Native American Religions, An Introduction)

7. 4. To guide people through the trials of living.

8. Origin Myth A culturally-accepted explanation of how the world and mankind were created.A culturally-accepted explanation of how the world and mankind were created. Origin myths mirror the originating society’s spiritual and social beliefs and customs.Origin myths mirror the originating society’s spiritual and social beliefs and customs.