1. What is a Myth?
Mrs. Wright

2. Definition of Myth Myth:
An anonymous, traditional story that explains a belief, custom, or mysterious natural phenomenon.
The word myth comes from the Greek word muthos
Means “story”

3. Why Myths?
Myths had specific purposes in their cultures.
Myths were created out of a human need to make sense of the universe and explain how the world and its human inhabitants came to be.
In every culture, however, there were 7 main functions of myths

4. Functions 1
To explain the creation of the world and universe

5. Function 2 To explain the human condition:
How and why people were created
Why they are flawed
Why there is suffering in the world
Why people must eventually die
What happens to people after death

6. Functions 3
To explain natural phenomena, such as the setting of the sun and the phases of the moon

7. Function 4
To explain the nature of gods and goddesses and how these deities and human beings interact

8. Functions 5
To explain the meanings behind religious rituals, customs, and beliefs

9. Function 6
To explain historical events

10. Function 7
To teach moral lessons