1. Greek Mythology
Introductory Notes

2. I. Types of Stories A.) Myth
Fictional tale; explains actions of the gods or origins of nature
Oral tradition
No basis in fact
False, but everyone believes it

3. B.) Legend Story told about the past May/may not be based on fact
Popularly accepted as historical
Example: Legend of Sleepy Hollow

4. C.) Fable Fictional story Characters are animals or inanimate objects
Teaches a lesson
Short
Idle talk (no basis in fact)

5. D.) Folktale Story of the common people
Passed down orally from generation to generation
Often several versions
Adventure stories
Examples: Paul Bunyan and Davy Crockett

6. E.) Fairy Tale Short story Told for children
About elves, dragons, fairies; magical creatures
Examples: Cinderella and Rapunzel

7. Why Study Greek Mythology?
1. Explain nature
Thunder, lightning, spider webs, echoes, seasons, etc.

8. 2. Explain positive and negative human qualities
Bad or good person
Examples in today’s culture:
Santa Claus: positive, generous, loving, giving
Scrooge: selfish, loves $ above all else

9. 3. Explain human experiences
Destruction, life, death, renewal, evil
4. Expand vocabulary
Many current words and expressions based in Greek mythology
5. Influences current culture/business
Nike, Midas, movies, etc.
6. Understand literature/symbols in literature
Shakespeare and Harry Potter