1. What is a Myth? THE STUDY AND ANALYSIS OF GREEK MYTHOLOGY

2. A myth is a fictional story which attempts to explain something in history, religion, or nature. The Essential Nature of Myth http://electricka.com/etaf/muses/mythology/understanding_myth_and_mythol ogy/the_essential_nature_of_myth/the_essential_nature_of_myth_home_page. htm

3. Purpose OF MYTHS: To explain natural phenomena To explain the creation of the world To teach moral lessons To explain a historical event To explain ancient religious practices To reveal the common hopes and fears of mankind To simply entertain http://electricka.com/etaf/muses/mythology/understanding_myth_and_mythology/the_essential_nature_of_myth/the_essential_nature_of_myth_home_page.htm

4. Characteristics of Myths Have a religious undertone Are early man’s desire to explain the universe Generally involve nature or the adventure of gods/goddesses or heroes http://www.mfschools.org/user/woodhala/students/6e lementsofmythsppt.pdf god/goddesses are usually superhuman in nature Gods can appear in disguised form Human emotions are experienced by the god Magic is often present A metamorphosis may occur (transformation/change )