Introduction to Mythology
Mythology: The study of “Myths”—and myths are stories about supernatural beings in early times, which were handed down orally from one generation to another Myths attempt to explain such things as: Nature- Where did Earth come from? Heavens? Seasons? Geography? Man- Where did we come from? Gods- Where do the gods come from?
The Greeks and Romans believed in polytheism… Myths are stories that are based on tradition. Some may have factual origins, while others are completely fictional.
Why do we study Mythology? Interesting and Entertaining Shows how ancient people viewed the world and gives us an account of their history It is constantly referenced to in everyday life
Myths are sacred tales that explain the world and man's experience. Myths are as relevant to us today as they were to the ancients. Myths answer timeless questions and serve as a compass to each generation.
The myths of a lost paradise… Give people hope that by living a virtuous life, they can earn a better life in the hereafter.
The myths of a long ago golden age Give people hope that there are great leaders who will improve their lives.
The Hero's Quest Is a model for young men and women to follow, as they accept adult responsibilities.
The Hero Many mythological stories feature Heroes Heroes have specific traits: Unusual circumstance of birth; danger or royalty Leaves family or land and lives with others An event leads to an adventure or quest Hero has special weapon only he can wield Hero has supernatural help The hero must prove himself many times while on the adventure Hero experiences atonement with his father
Some heroes you may know…
Reassurance Myths… Some myths simply reassure, such as myths that explain natural phenomena(earthquakes, tornadoes, volcanoes, hurricanes, etc.) as the actions of gods, rather than random events of nature.
Subject Matter… The subjects of myths reflect the universal concerns of mankind throughout history: birth, death, the afterlife, the origin of man and the world, good and evil and the nature of man himself.
The creation of the world (according to Greek Mythology) First there was Chaos Out of Chaos emerged two beings: Gaea (Mother Earth) and Uranus (Heavens)
Myths Can Be Universal… A myth taps into a universal cultural narrative and the collective wisdom of man. An excellent illustration of the universality of these themes is that so many people, who have had no contact with each other, create myths that are remarkably similar. For example, cultures worldwide, from the Middle East to the distant mountains of South America, have myths about great floods, virgin births, and the afterlife
Myths as Teaching Tools… Many myths are instructive and act as a guide to acceptable or unacceptable social behaviors. Many explain what is considered “taboo” or forbidden, such as incest, fratricide (killing a brother or sister), and greed.
Myths in Modern Day… Myths are present in today’s arts and advertising, for a very simple reason. From film to cars to perfume, advertising uses visual metaphors to speak to us. While artists of every generation reinterpret myths, the same basic patterns have shown up in mythology for thousands of years. A name, phrase, or image based on a familiar myth can speak volumes to those who have been absorbing these mythic tales since birth.
Some references to mythology that you may have seen…