1. SUBJECT: Classical Studies TEACHER: Ana Martinez
What is mythology ?
SUBJECT: Classical Studies
TEACHER: Ana Martinez

2. MYTHOLOGY
Mythology is the study of myths.
Mythology is a collection of traditional stories that express the beliefs or values of a group of people
All cultures have same type of myths
(Greeks, Romans, Germanic, Mayan, etc.)
The same myths can often be found in different parts of the world: creation of the world, creation of humankind…

3. MYTHS
Myths are poetic stories that explain natural phenomena or important events. They are led by heroic or divine personages
A myth help groups of people identify themselves and define their values. It helps validate social order and provides a moral code by which to live.

4. When we study myths…
… we can learn how a culture thought, lived, and expressed themselves.  HISTORY can tell you facts about a people, but MYTH shows you the personality, their beliefs, fears, and hopes. 

5. CHARACTERISTICS OF A MYTH
They are sacred
They use the supernatural
You may encounter different versions of stories. No one can say that one version of a story is “right” and the others “wrong.”
To understand myths, one must look beyond the literal translation. Instead, you should study the symbols and ideas.

6. EXAMPLES OF MYTHS Ancient Myths
Gilgamesh (Mesopotamia)
Osiris reborn (Egypt)
Homer’s Iliad – Troyan war (Greece)
Popol Vuh (Mayan creation)
Yggdrasil, the tree of life (Germanic)
Modern-day myths have many components of ancient/classic myths, as in the following:
Star Wars
Lord of the Rings
Superman
Finding Nemo
Monsters Inc.

7. MYTHOLOGY IN MODERN DAY SOCIETY
Mythology is everywhere! Many companies/groups/corporations take their name, logo or theme from ancient mythology. Below are just a few:
Ajax: Greek warrior in the Trojan war who “cleaned up” in battle (household cleaner)
Trojan Horse: the Greek hid in it to attack Troy from the inside (computer virus)
Nike: Winged goddess of victory who can run and fly at great speeds (shoes/apparel)