Mythological Background in Literature Location, Geography and History

The Geography of Greece The location, geography and history of Greece have had a big influence on the nature, story and style of Greek Mythology

How might the following have affected the myths: The Temperate Climate of Greece The culture was one of a civic and outdoor social life in general (similar to Thailand). The outside was generally seen as the realm of men/government. Interior space represented women’s space/privacy

How might the following have affected the myths: Greece was close to the sea/island culture There was a lot of cultural exchanges through boat travel/seafaring. Stories may have spread this way. Characters also often set sail in the stories and the sea was a key element of the myths (Land of Sirens/Poseidon etc).

How might the following have affected the myths: The Mountains Surrounding Greece The mountains kept cultures separated on land, which might have led to localised myths (different retellings of similar stories). Overcoming mountains was also a key part of different stories (e.g. in the Hercules story).

How might the following have affected the myths: The Olive Oil Trade The Greeks were big traders of Olive Oil (and still are). This may have allowed for the export of Greek Mythology in the form of iconography on vases/scripture, for example, as well as the spread of stories.

How might the following have affected the myths: The Changing of Power from Crete to Athens The central power of Greek society used to reside in Crete (an island). However, this later moved to Athens. Greek stories are full of reference to this ‘handing over of power.’ The Cretans were often represented as barbaric and ancient, with Athenians representing the modern and new.

Greece: Then and Now