Characteristics of Myth . . . generally outside of time . . . has inherent authority (it explains, but not in an apologetic way) . . . presents paradigms of life . . . is often enacted in rituals . . . though not designed purely for entertainment, myth does entertain!

Why Study Myth? Myth is important to all cultures, and often tends to undergird or drive folk religions Myth provides a repository (or “library”) for cultural beliefs that can help us: Understand the values of the culture Locate “contact points” for witness Discern felt needs within the culture

North American Myth Traditional folklore Hansel and Gretel Cinderella Snow White Hollywood: generator of myth . . . Star Wars and “the force” The Matrix and the illusion of “reality” and need for a savior Christian myth Chronicles of Narnia Lord of the Rings The Left Behind series

Themes found in Myth Heroism Sacrifice Brokenness Redemption Love Success Coming of age Loss