Consider this . . . Is your society’s view of god one of perfection or imperfection? For example, is your god(dess) all-powerful, all-knowing, all-good, or any combination of these three? If not, what are your god(s)’ limitations? Why would a god have limitations? What characteristics of your culture are captured in the imperfection of its god?

We’ve all got to start somewhere. CREATION We’ve all got to start somewhere.

How can literature influence cultural beliefs and social perceptions? Essential question: How can literature influence cultural beliefs and social perceptions?

Learning Targets Before we conclude this topic of study, I will be able to: Describe the cultural influences of creation myths. Identify archetypal features of creation myths. Compare and contrast creation myths originating from diverse world cultures. Present a creation myth to my peers.

Why do we need creation myths? The existence of the world must be explained. According to Joseph Campbell, “The question being answered is not who made the world or how, but rather the need for the presence of a creator being visible in all things.”

Metaphors in myths Metaphors are used in myths to explain higher concepts. Many of the stories of mystical monsters were merely representations of the fear conquered. Metaphors need to fit their culture. Metaphors should be universally acknowledged images. Or at least, they should be easily recognizable to people belonging to a specific culture.

Metaphor A metaphor, as defined in our glossary, is a figure of speech in which an implied comparison is made between two unlike things that actually have something important in common. The word metaphor itself is a metaphor, coming from a Greek word meaning to "transfer" or "carry across." Metaphors "carry" meaning from one word, image, or idea to another.

How can metaphors help us understand creation myths? Metaphors are relevant to the geography around which the culture has developed. Japanese myths often focus on the ocean, while myths of the Midwest Indian tribes do not. Metaphors define the roles of men, women, animals, and possibly the interrelations among diverse cultures.

Creation myths The creation myth should follow the general format of a myth and include an explanation of basic human behavior. Creation myths are sometimes used to explain the separation between the god(s) and man. Pandora Prometheus

What are you going to do with all that knowledge? You will present a culture that has a known creation story Be cautious and thoughtful in your process, this culture must be respected throughout the presentation and research process. Important elements to document: Environment – geography, weather, wildlife Intra-Cultural relations – gender, politics, power Inter-Cultural relations – other cultures that relate directly to your own. Cultural behavior – violent/pacifist, hunting/agricultural, diplomacy/conflict.

Presenting a creation story The myth must be based on the specific and unique elements of the culture. You must use metaphors to help your readers understand the culture. You must demonstrate your understanding of archetypes in the structure and elements of the myth.

The culture’s creation myth must: Describe the state of existence before creation. Demonstrate your understanding of the creation story you have been given Identify and define the creator(s). Establish important roles played. Describe the state of existence after creation. Include a piece of literature involving the creation of that culture

Presentation Format The creation myth may be presented in the following formats: Powerpoint Written with Visual aid Drama Audio Presentation Poster board Presentation

Creation stories Cherokee Egyptian Greek Chinese (pick one) Genesis Mongolian Maya Kumulipo (Haiwaiin) First Nations (Pick one)