Introduction to mythology

Mythos: spoken word that pertains to a tale, story, or narrative

Myths are NOT:• Legends

– Based on history and facts• Folktales/Fables

– Fairytales – Stories of morality– Always having main

characters as animals

• Anonymous• Use supernatural events as

means of interpreting natural events (gods and goddesses)

Myths ARE:

Polytheism: Belief in many gods

Divine Myths• Tales referring to gods• Creation of the world• Meaning of existence and

death• Explanation of natural

phenomena

Heroic Myths• Tales of humans on earth• Heroes• Adventures• Linked to divine presence

– Divine intervention in human affairs

– Any kind of reference to the gods or someone related to them

– Genealogy establishing descent from the gods

History• Oral Tradition

– Mix of facts, embellishment, and lies for entertainment

• 700 B.C. • Connections with all human

life and experience– Origins and the nature of the

universe– Gods and interaction with

mankind– Reveal historical facts– Emotional connections and

concerns for moral and physical issues

– Convey beliefs, superstitions, rituals, and social ideas.

http://www.sigmabooks.gr/maps_en_enArgoEur.html

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecU2LYUoOKA