Monday, August 24 Learning Target: I can identify archetypes and how they relate to mythology. Focus Question: Find a word in your IR novel that you

Monday, August 24Monday, August 24

Learning Target: I can identify archetypes and how they relate to mythology.

Focus Question: Find a word in your IR novel that you are unfamiliar with and use context clues to determine its meaning.


Focus Question: Find a word in your IR novel that you are unfamiliar with and use context clues to determine its meaning.

Reminders:Mythology Part I, Chapter 1 due tomorrow

Vocab 1 Packet due Wednesday

Vocab 1 Quiz on Thursday!

What is a myth?What is a myth?What is a myth?What is a myth?

There is no one satisfactory

definition, since myths serve

many different purposes.

There is no one satisfactory

definition, since myths serve

many different purposes.

The First PurposeThe First PurposeThe First PurposeThe First Purpose

The first purpose was to explain the inexplicable. Since the beginning of humankind’s existence, myths have functioned as rationalizations for the fundamental mysteries of life.

The first purpose was to explain the inexplicable. Since the beginning of humankind’s existence, myths have functioned as rationalizations for the fundamental mysteries of life.

They answer questions such They answer questions such as:as: Who made the world? Where do we come from? Who was the first human? Why does the sun travel across the

sky each day? Why does the moon wax and wane? Why do we have annual agricultural

cycles and seasonal changes? Who controls our world, and how

can we influence those beings so our lives are easier?

They answer questions such They answer questions such as:as: Who made the world? Where do we come from? Who was the first human? Why does the sun travel across the

sky each day? Why does the moon wax and wane? Why do we have annual agricultural

cycles and seasonal changes? Who controls our world, and how

can we influence those beings so our lives are easier?

In the absence of scientific information of any kind, long ago societies all over the worlds devised creation myths, resurrection myths, and complex systems of supernatural beings, each with specific powers, and stories about their actions.

In the absence of scientific information of any kind, long ago societies all over the worlds devised creation myths, resurrection myths, and complex systems of supernatural beings, each with specific powers, and stories about their actions.

The Second PurposeThe Second PurposeThe Second PurposeThe Second Purpose

The second function of mythology is to justify an existing social system and to account for its rites and customs.

One constant rule of mythology is whatever happens among the gods reflects events on earth.

Thus, they serve to illustrate moral principles, frequently through feats of heroism performed by mortals.

The second function of mythology is to justify an existing social system and to account for its rites and customs.

One constant rule of mythology is whatever happens among the gods reflects events on earth.

Thus, they serve to illustrate moral principles, frequently through feats of heroism performed by mortals.

How Myths BeganHow Myths BeganHow Myths BeganHow Myths Began

Some believe myths began as historical events that became distorted with the passage of time.

Others think myths resulted from man’s attempt to explain natural occurrences that he could not understand.

However, scholars have developed other theories of how myths began.

Some believe myths began as historical events that became distorted with the passage of time.

Others think myths resulted from man’s attempt to explain natural occurrences that he could not understand.

However, scholars have developed other theories of how myths began.

ScholarsScholarsScholarsScholars

Euhemerus was one of the first scholars to suggest that all myths are based on historical facts. He believed that scholars had to strip away the supernatural elements in a myth to reach these facts.

Euhemerus was one of the first scholars to suggest that all myths are based on historical facts. He believed that scholars had to strip away the supernatural elements in a myth to reach these facts.

Scholars cont…Scholars cont…Scholars cont…Scholars cont… Tylor believed that myths began through man’s

efforts to account for the unexplainable occurrence in dreams. According to Tylor, man’s first idea about supernatural was his belief that he had a soul, which lived in his body. While the body slept, the soul would wander freely and have many adventures. These adventures appeared to man in his dreams. Man then came to believe that animals had souls. Finally, he decided that everything in nature had a soul. Man could then explain such natural events as the eruption of a volcano.

Tylor believed that myths began through man’s efforts to account for the unexplainable occurrence in dreams. According to Tylor, man’s first idea about supernatural was his belief that he had a soul, which lived in his body. While the body slept, the soul would wander freely and have many adventures. These adventures appeared to man in his dreams. Man then came to believe that animals had souls. Finally, he decided that everything in nature had a soul. Man could then explain such natural events as the eruption of a volcano.

Scholars cont…Scholars cont…Scholars cont…Scholars cont…

According to Malinowski, all people recognize that a frontier exists between what man can and cannot explain logically. He said man creates myths when he reaches this frontier. Thus, man had create such myths to relieve the tension brought on by his not why something happens.

According to Malinowski, all people recognize that a frontier exists between what man can and cannot explain logically. He said man creates myths when he reaches this frontier. Thus, man had create such myths to relieve the tension brought on by his not why something happens.

Scholars cont…Scholars cont…Scholars cont…Scholars cont…

Frazer believed that myths began in the great cycle of nature-birth, growth, decay, death and rebirth.

Frazer believed that myths began in the great cycle of nature-birth, growth, decay, death and rebirth.

What Mythology Tell Us What Mythology Tell Us About PeopleAbout People

What Mythology Tell Us What Mythology Tell Us About PeopleAbout People

Personal and Collective UnconsciousArchetypes- recurring patterns in literature.

Personal and Collective UnconsciousArchetypes- recurring patterns in literature.

Mythology and the Mythology and the IndividualIndividual

Mythology and the Mythology and the IndividualIndividual

Carl Jung developed an original and controversial theory about how myths reflect the attitudes and behavior of individuals. Jung suggested that everyone has a personal and a collective unconscious.

Jung believed that all mythologies have certain features in common patterns, which he called archetypes.These features include characters, such as gods and heroes, and themes, such as love or revenge.

He suggested that archetypes date back to the earliest days of mankind and by studying them you could trace the psychological development of a particular race as well as of all mankind.

Carl Jung developed an original and controversial theory about how myths reflect the attitudes and behavior of individuals. Jung suggested that everyone has a personal and a collective unconscious.

Jung believed that all mythologies have certain features in common patterns, which he called archetypes.These features include characters, such as gods and heroes, and themes, such as love or revenge.

He suggested that archetypes date back to the earliest days of mankind and by studying them you could trace the psychological development of a particular race as well as of all mankind.

Variations in MythologyVariations in MythologyVariations in MythologyVariations in Mythology

Geography, climate, government, and other social aspects influence the myths of various people.

Thus, despite their differences related to climate or geography or social systems all mythologies have certain features in common.

Geography, climate, government, and other social aspects influence the myths of various people.

Thus, despite their differences related to climate or geography or social systems all mythologies have certain features in common.

Tuesday, August 25Tuesday, August 25


Focus question: Use a word from your vocabulary list and write a sentence using it about a character in your IR novel.


Focus question: Use a word from your vocabulary list and write a sentence using it about a character in your IR novel.

Agenda and Announcements

Agenda and Announcements

1. IR 2. Mythology/Creation Stories 3. Myth Reading time

Vocab Packet tomorrow/Myth Reading Vocab Quiz on Thursday Picture Day on Friday. PACKETS!!!

1. IR 2. Mythology/Creation Stories 3. Myth Reading time

Vocab Packet tomorrow/Myth Reading Vocab Quiz on Thursday Picture Day on Friday. PACKETS!!!

Leading Writers of Leading Writers of Greek/Roman mythsGreek/Roman mythsLeading Writers of Leading Writers of

Greek/Roman mythsGreek/Roman myths Greek

Homer Hesoid Apollonius

Roman Virgil Catullus

Greek Homer Hesoid Apollonius

Roman Virgil Catullus

The GodsThe GodsThe GodsThe Gods

Unlike many creation stories, in the Greek versions the gods created by the universe instead of the other way around.

Unlike many creation stories, in the Greek versions the gods created by the universe instead of the other way around.

The Gods Cont…The Gods Cont…The Gods Cont…The Gods Cont…

In the beginning, two entities exist, Heaven and Earth. Their children are the Titans, whose children, in turn are the Olympians, the main Greek gods.

The Titans-who include such notables as Ocean, Mnemosyne (Memory), and Prometheus, mankind’s benefactor-rule the universe until Zeus add their other children conquer them.

In the beginning, two entities exist, Heaven and Earth. Their children are the Titans, whose children, in turn are the Olympians, the main Greek gods.

The Titans-who include such notables as Ocean, Mnemosyne (Memory), and Prometheus, mankind’s benefactor-rule the universe until Zeus add their other children conquer them.

The Gods Cont…The Gods Cont…The Gods Cont…The Gods Cont…

The term “Olympians” comes from Mount Olympus, the gods’ mystical home, which is conceived as a high mountaintop, but is really a magical place that exist on a heavenly plane (which Zeus alone rules), earth, sea, nor the underworld.

Shared by all the gods, Olympus is perfect.

The term “Olympians” comes from Mount Olympus, the gods’ mystical home, which is conceived as a high mountaintop, but is really a magical place that exist on a heavenly plane (which Zeus alone rules), earth, sea, nor the underworld.

Shared by all the gods, Olympus is perfect.

The Twelve OlympiansThe Twelve OlympiansThe Twelve OlympiansThe Twelve Olympians

Zeus Poseidon Hades Hestia Hera

Zeus Poseidon Hades Hestia Hera

Ares Athena Apollo Hermes Artemis Hephaestus Aphrodite

Ares Athena Apollo Hermes Artemis Hephaestus Aphrodite

Greek CreationGreek CreationGreek CreationGreek Creation

The Creation of the World: The beginning of the world, no mankind

Creation of Mankind by Prometheus: The first story of mankind

The Creation of the World: The beginning of the world, no mankind

Creation of Mankind by Prometheus: The first story of mankind

Greek Creation Cont…Greek Creation Cont…Greek Creation Cont…Greek Creation Cont…

Creation Myth: “In the beginning there was only chaos.

Then out of the void appeared Erebus, the unknowable place where death dwells, and Night. All else was empty, silent, endless, darkness. Then somehow Love was born bringing a start of order. From Love came Light and Day. Once there was Light and Day, Gaea, the earth appeared.”

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxoRWD-RwtU

Creation Myth: “In the beginning there was only chaos.

Then out of the void appeared Erebus, the unknowable place where death dwells, and Night. All else was empty, silent, endless, darkness. Then somehow Love was born bringing a start of order. From Love came Light and Day. Once there was Light and Day, Gaea, the earth appeared.”

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxoRWD-RwtU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxoRWD-RwtU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxoRWD-RwtU


Epimetheus created creatures with qualities such as cunningness, swiftness, strength, fur and wings.

Prometheus created man as a mirror image of the gods, they could stand upright and were given control of fire.

Epimetheus created creatures with qualities such as cunningness, swiftness, strength, fur and wings.

Prometheus created man as a mirror image of the gods, they could stand upright and were given control of fire.

Homework for tomorrow!!!Homework for tomorrow!!!

Finish chapter 3 in “Mythology” (How the World and Mankind Were Created).

Pages 72-77 (The Stories of Prometheus and Pandora)

Finish chapter 3 in “Mythology” (How the World and Mankind Were Created).

Pages 72-77 (The Stories of Prometheus and Pandora)

Wednesday, August 26thWednesday, August 26th

Learning Target: I can determine the meaning of words in context.

Focus Question: Choose a different word from your vocabulary list and write a sentence about a conflict in your IR novel using the word.

***Get your Vocab packet out. I will check it during IR!!!

Learning Target: I can determine the meaning of words in context.

Focus Question: Choose a different word from your vocabulary list and write a sentence about a conflict in your IR novel using the word.

***Get your Vocab packet out. I will check it during IR!!!

Greek Creation Cont…Greek Creation Cont…

Punishment of mankind: creation of Pandora (woman) and the box of secrets

Pandora married to Epimetheus, happily but cursed with curiosity about the contents of the box.

She opened the box releasing the terrors inside. All that was left for mankind was hope.

Relate Pandora to Eve from Genesis?

Punishment of mankind: creation of Pandora (woman) and the box of secrets

Pandora married to Epimetheus, happily but cursed with curiosity about the contents of the box.

She opened the box releasing the terrors inside. All that was left for mankind was hope.

Relate Pandora to Eve from Genesis?


Prometheus was loyal to mankind over Zeus.This is proved by Prometheus tricking Zeus

Zeus is enraged by this, Prometheus is exiled to the Caucasus Mountains doomed to eternal pain.

Prometheus was loyal to mankind over Zeus.This is proved by Prometheus tricking Zeus

Zeus is enraged by this, Prometheus is exiled to the Caucasus Mountains doomed to eternal pain.


How are the gods anthropomorphic?

Why is man not created in the original creation of the world?

Why do the gods feel the need to punish their creation, Mankind?

Why are women the scapegoat?

How are the gods anthropomorphic?

Why is man not created in the original creation of the world?

Why do the gods feel the need to punish their creation, Mankind?

Why are women the scapegoat?

Thursday, August, 27th Thursday, August, 27th

Learning Target: I can demonstrate how to use vocabulary words in context.

Focus question: Identify an archetypal theme or character in your IR novel.

Learning Target: I can demonstrate how to use vocabulary words in context.

Focus question: Identify an archetypal theme or character in your IR novel.

The Lesser Gods on The Lesser Gods on Mount OlympusMount Olympus

The Lesser Gods on The Lesser Gods on Mount OlympusMount Olympus

Eros, god of Love The Graces, bestow

charm, grace and beauty

The Muses, goddesses of the arts and sciences

Hebe, goddess of Youth

Iris, goddess of the Rainbow

Eros, god of Love The Graces, bestow

charm, grace and beauty

The Muses, goddesses of the arts and sciences

Hebe, goddess of Youth

Iris, goddess of the Rainbow

Themis, Divine Justice

Dike, Human Justice Nemesis, Righteous

Anger Aidos, the sense of

respect and shame that keeps human from sinning

Themis, Divine Justice

Dike, Human Justice Nemesis, Righteous

Anger Aidos, the sense of

respect and shame that keeps human from sinning

The Lesser Gods of the The Lesser Gods of the SeaSea

The Lesser Gods of the The Lesser Gods of the SeaSea

Nereids, sea nymphs

Naiads, freshwater nymphs

Triton, the trumpeter of the sea

Proteus, Poseidon’s son or attendant (able to change shapes).

Nereids, sea nymphs

Naiads, freshwater nymphs

Triton, the trumpeter of the sea

Proteus, Poseidon’s son or attendant (able to change shapes).

There is a different god for every river, and the Titan Ocean-lord of the mysterious river that encircles the earth-lives along with several other minor water gods.

There is a different god for every river, and the Titan Ocean-lord of the mysterious river that encircles the earth-lives along with several other minor water gods.

The UnderworldThe UnderworldThe UnderworldThe Underworld Hades and his queen, Persephone, are

the only rulers of the underworld-a place simple referred to as Hades.

Hades is divided into sections, Tartarus and Erebus, Hades has five famous rivers: Acheron, the river of woe; Cocytus, the river of lamentation; Phigethon, the river of fire; Styx, the river of the gods’ unbreakable oath; and Lethe, the river of forgetfulness.

Hades and his queen, Persephone, are the only rulers of the underworld-a place simple referred to as Hades.

Hades is divided into sections, Tartarus and Erebus, Hades has five famous rivers: Acheron, the river of woe; Cocytus, the river of lamentation; Phigethon, the river of fire; Styx, the river of the gods’ unbreakable oath; and Lethe, the river of forgetfulness.

The Underworld Cont…The Underworld Cont…The Underworld Cont…The Underworld Cont…

The Guardian to Hades: A three-headed dog, Cerberus

The Boatman: Charon ferries the dead from Erebus across the

junction of the Acheron and the Cocytus to the gates of Tartarus, where they are judged by three former kings, Rhadamanthus, Minos, Aeacus

The wicked are sentenced to eternal torment, while the good are admitted to the Elysian Fields, a place of perfect bliss.

The Furies Sleep and Death

The Guardian to Hades: A three-headed dog, Cerberus

The Boatman: Charon ferries the dead from Erebus across the

junction of the Acheron and the Cocytus to the gates of Tartarus, where they are judged by three former kings, Rhadamanthus, Minos, Aeacus

The wicked are sentenced to eternal torment, while the good are admitted to the Elysian Fields, a place of perfect bliss.

The Furies Sleep and Death

The Lesser Gods of The Lesser Gods of EarthEarth

The Lesser Gods of The Lesser Gods of EarthEarth

Pan and Silenus are mischievous and jovial earth gods.

Pan rules over the Satyrs, a race of goat men, and dances with the Dryads, the forest nymphs, and the Oreads, the mountain nymphs.

Castor and Pollux, sometimes spoken as gods. The twins represent the ideal of brotherly devotion.

Aeolus, King of the Winds

Pan and Silenus are mischievous and jovial earth gods.

Pan rules over the Satyrs, a race of goat men, and dances with the Dryads, the forest nymphs, and the Oreads, the mountain nymphs.

Castor and Pollux, sometimes spoken as gods. The twins represent the ideal of brotherly devotion.

Aeolus, King of the Winds

The Lesser Beings of The Lesser Beings of EarthEarth

The Lesser Beings of The Lesser Beings of EarthEarth

Centaurs-half-men, half-horses, one whom is Chiron, an important tutor to many heroes.

The Gorgons The Fates, who are assigned neither a

place in heaven nor earth, spin measure and cut the threads of men’s lives. The Fates are not subject to the decrees of any of the gods, not even Zeus himself.

Centaurs-half-men, half-horses, one whom is Chiron, an important tutor to many heroes.

The Gorgons The Fates, who are assigned neither a

place in heaven nor earth, spin measure and cut the threads of men’s lives. The Fates are not subject to the decrees of any of the gods, not even Zeus himself.

Mankind’s Two Best Mankind’s Two Best FriendsFriends

Mankind’s Two Best Mankind’s Two Best FriendsFriends

Scholars differ in their inclusions of some gods into the Olympian Twelve. Some listings include Demeter who was the sister of Zeus and therefore equal to Hera and Hestia. Dionysus, also, had been included in some listings since he was the Zeus’ son and of great importance to the Greeks.

In Hamilton’s book, she excluded them from Mount Olympus and brings them to dwell with those one earth.

Scholars differ in their inclusions of some gods into the Olympian Twelve. Some listings include Demeter who was the sister of Zeus and therefore equal to Hera and Hestia. Dionysus, also, had been included in some listings since he was the Zeus’ son and of great importance to the Greeks.

In Hamilton’s book, she excluded them from Mount Olympus and brings them to dwell with those one earth.

Explanatory MythsExplanatory MythsExplanatory MythsExplanatory Myths

As discussed in previous lessons the primary purposes/functions of mythology is to explain imaginatively something which cannot be explained scientifically. Thus, there are a great number of myths explaining the movements of the sun, or the various animals or beast roaming the earth, or the cycles of nature.

As discussed in previous lessons the primary purposes/functions of mythology is to explain imaginatively something which cannot be explained scientifically. Thus, there are a great number of myths explaining the movements of the sun, or the various animals or beast roaming the earth, or the cycles of nature.

Explanatory Myths Explanatory Myths Cont…Cont…


One of the chief observations was the birth, growth, reproduction and death cycle.

Example: Corn was planted, grew to maturity, and died. Yet grains could be saved until the next planting season, replanted and the growth process would begin again

One of the chief observations was the birth, growth, reproduction and death cycle.

Example: Corn was planted, grew to maturity, and died. Yet grains could be saved until the next planting season, replanted and the growth process would begin again



The stories of Demeter and Dionysus follow this cycle. The mystery rites which grew up around the worship of these two gods, for example the Eleusinian mysteries, gave hope to the people that humans too, might be reborn after death.

The stories of Demeter and Dionysus follow this cycle. The mystery rites which grew up around the worship of these two gods, for example the Eleusinian mysteries, gave hope to the people that humans too, might be reborn after death.



In addition to these stories, Greek mythology has several flower myths which follow the death-resurrection concept. Hyacinth, Narcissus, Adonis and Clytie, all once mortals, live forever as flowers.

In addition to these stories, Greek mythology has several flower myths which follow the death-resurrection concept. Hyacinth, Narcissus, Adonis and Clytie, all once mortals, live forever as flowers.



Other explanatory myths deal with animals. How the spider and grasshopper came to be.

Some tales tell of animals which change in some way. For example, the crow or raven was originally white but Apollo turned its feathers black because the bird delivered an unwelcome message.

Another story explains why the peacock’s tail has eyes.

Other explanatory myths deal with animals. How the spider and grasshopper came to be.

Some tales tell of animals which change in some way. For example, the crow or raven was originally white but Apollo turned its feathers black because the bird delivered an unwelcome message.

Another story explains why the peacock’s tail has eyes.

Example 1Example 1Example 1Example 1

Zeus had a love affair with Leto (Latona) and she bore twins-Artemis and Apollo. Hera, in her jealousy, decreed that no one should give Leto refuge or hospitality. One day in her wanderings, Leto came upon a pool of water. The people surrounding the pool told her she could not drink, and when she begged them to take pity on her and her children, they laughed and kicked up the mud from the bottom of the pool to make the water undrinkable.

Zeus had a love affair with Leto (Latona) and she bore twins-Artemis and Apollo. Hera, in her jealousy, decreed that no one should give Leto refuge or hospitality. One day in her wanderings, Leto came upon a pool of water. The people surrounding the pool told her she could not drink, and when she begged them to take pity on her and her children, they laughed and kicked up the mud from the bottom of the pool to make the water undrinkable.

Example 1 Cont…Example 1 Cont…Example 1 Cont…Example 1 Cont…

Leto asked the gods to punish them whereupon the people turned green, began to croak, and were unable to leave the water. To this day, they remain in the same conditions-frogs.

Leto asked the gods to punish them whereupon the people turned green, began to croak, and were unable to leave the water. To this day, they remain in the same conditions-frogs.

Example 2Example 2Example 2Example 2

In the second story, Demeter told Poseidon that since the sea was filled with ugly things-squids, eels, etc.-he must be incapable of making things beautiful. To prove her wrong, he labored an entire week on creating the most beautiful animal, the horse. But he made many mistakes, with some horses having humps on their backs, and others possessing stripes or overly long necks.

Thus, we have giraffes, zebras, donkeys and camels, as well as the horse.

In the second story, Demeter told Poseidon that since the sea was filled with ugly things-squids, eels, etc.-he must be incapable of making things beautiful. To prove her wrong, he labored an entire week on creating the most beautiful animal, the horse. But he made many mistakes, with some horses having humps on their backs, and others possessing stripes or overly long necks.

Thus, we have giraffes, zebras, donkeys and camels, as well as the horse.



Still other myths deal with the sun (Helios, drawn in a chariot across the sky), the dawn (Aurora, preceding him in her own chariot), volcanic eruptions (brought about by the fires of Vulcan’s forge), evil in the world (Pandora’s fault, of course), and even the moaning of the wind in the mountains (which is said to be Prometheus crying out in pain).

Still other myths deal with the sun (Helios, drawn in a chariot across the sky), the dawn (Aurora, preceding him in her own chariot), volcanic eruptions (brought about by the fires of Vulcan’s forge), evil in the world (Pandora’s fault, of course), and even the moaning of the wind in the mountains (which is said to be Prometheus crying out in pain).



Aberrations of the sun, areas of the desert and areas of artic waste are explained by the story of Phaëthon. And a sub-story in the Phaëthon myth tells of the origin of the poplar.

Finally, is the story of Echo; rejected by Naricissus, cursed by Hera, she pines away until only a faint trace remains.

Aberrations of the sun, areas of the desert and areas of artic waste are explained by the story of Phaëthon. And a sub-story in the Phaëthon myth tells of the origin of the poplar.

Finally, is the story of Echo; rejected by Naricissus, cursed by Hera, she pines away until only a faint trace remains.

Who is a Hero?Who is a Hero?Who is a Hero?Who is a Hero?

Hero, in the original Greek sense, means a demigod-the offspring of a god and a mortal. But in a broader sense, a hero is one who stands out from the ordinary individuals as one embodies the values and ideals of a particular culture. Because values or ideals change according to place and time, the qualities of a hero change also.

Hero, in the original Greek sense, means a demigod-the offspring of a god and a mortal. But in a broader sense, a hero is one who stands out from the ordinary individuals as one embodies the values and ideals of a particular culture. Because values or ideals change according to place and time, the qualities of a hero change also.

Who is a Hero? Who is a Hero? Who is a Hero? Who is a Hero? Thus, what is admired and imitated in one age

or place may be considered unimportant or even looked down upon in another era or locale.

Greek heroes, coming from a warrior culture possessed strength and courage. Although larger than life, in the sense that they were often half-gods, they were not immortal. But through their superhuman deeds and suffering here on earth they achieved a type of immortality.

Thus, what is admired and imitated in one age or place may be considered unimportant or even looked down upon in another era or locale.

Greek heroes, coming from a warrior culture possessed strength and courage. Although larger than life, in the sense that they were often half-gods, they were not immortal. But through their superhuman deeds and suffering here on earth they achieved a type of immortality.

Heroes Through the Heroes Through the AgesAges

Heroes Through the Heroes Through the AgesAges

Old English Period: As with Greek culture, this period honors the warrior hero. Beowulf, from the Old English epic of that name, embodies qualities the Anglo-Saxon held in high esteem: courage, loyalty to a king and fellow warrior, ability to perform superhuman deeds.

Old English Period: As with Greek culture, this period honors the warrior hero. Beowulf, from the Old English epic of that name, embodies qualities the Anglo-Saxon held in high esteem: courage, loyalty to a king and fellow warrior, ability to perform superhuman deeds.

Heroes Through the Heroes Through the Ages Cont…Ages Cont…


Medieval Period: Medieval Period: King Arthur or one of his knights embodies the ideals of this age: courage, loyalty to God and king, chivalrous behavior toward women and the helpless.

Renaissance Period: Renaissance Period: A courtier whose versatility led him to excel in art, literature, diplomacy, warfare, and everything else, is hero of this period. Leonardo da Vinci is an example of this “universal human.”

Medieval Period: Medieval Period: King Arthur or one of his knights embodies the ideals of this age: courage, loyalty to God and king, chivalrous behavior toward women and the helpless.

Renaissance Period: Renaissance Period: A courtier whose versatility led him to excel in art, literature, diplomacy, warfare, and everything else, is hero of this period. Leonardo da Vinci is an example of this “universal human.”



Romantic Period: Romantic Period: Lord Bryon himself is the paradigm for the Byronic hero, a moody, mysterious, social outcast, yet one who possesses courage and a fascination for others.

American Literature: American Literature: The early American hero, a pioneer like Daniel Boone perhaps, shows the values of a new country: courage, desire to enter into the unknown, willingness to endure hardships, need to be independent.

Romantic Period: Romantic Period: Lord Bryon himself is the paradigm for the Byronic hero, a moody, mysterious, social outcast, yet one who possesses courage and a fascination for others.

American Literature: American Literature: The early American hero, a pioneer like Daniel Boone perhaps, shows the values of a new country: courage, desire to enter into the unknown, willingness to endure hardships, need to be independent.

Why were hero myths Why were hero myths created?created?


Humanism, nationalism, and individual or family pride are three suggested reasons for the creation of hero myths.

Humanism, nationalism, and individual or family pride are three suggested reasons for the creation of hero myths.



Humanism, speaks of the person as the center of all things, of the entire universe.

Nationalism believes that a particular nation or culture is the best.

Finally, each individual desires to believe that his or her family, indeed him or herself embodies all the qualities of a hero or heroine.

So, hero myths exalt the individual, the nation and the entire human race.

Humanism, speaks of the person as the center of all things, of the entire universe.

Nationalism believes that a particular nation or culture is the best.

Finally, each individual desires to believe that his or her family, indeed him or herself embodies all the qualities of a hero or heroine.

So, hero myths exalt the individual, the nation and the entire human race.

The Hero CycleThe Hero CycleThe Hero CycleThe Hero Cycle

Primitive man knew life as a cycle: birth and childhood (dependency), adulthood (independence), and death (a return to the eternal). He also saw life that life itself was an unending series of smaller cycles, challenges which we face and overcome if we are to grow.

This awareness of life’s cycles and their importance is reflected in the pattern of the “Hero(ine)’s Journey.

Primitive man knew life as a cycle: birth and childhood (dependency), adulthood (independence), and death (a return to the eternal). He also saw life that life itself was an unending series of smaller cycles, challenges which we face and overcome if we are to grow.

This awareness of life’s cycles and their importance is reflected in the pattern of the “Hero(ine)’s Journey.

The Hero Cycle cont…The Hero Cycle cont…The Hero Cycle cont…The Hero Cycle cont…

The Hero’s Journey is similar to the primitive Rite of Passage, which initiates a child into adulthood.

In a rite of passage, a child first faces separation, when s/he is taken from their mother to confront some fearful monster or danger.

The Hero’s Journey is similar to the primitive Rite of Passage, which initiates a child into adulthood.

In a rite of passage, a child first faces separation, when s/he is taken from their mother to confront some fearful monster or danger.

The Hero Cycle cont…The Hero Cycle cont…The Hero Cycle cont…The Hero Cycle cont…

The child faces the monster and goes through an initiation, giving up the role of a dependent child.

Then the child/adult must return to the village as an adult, ready to on adult responsibilities.

The child faces the monster and goes through an initiation, giving up the role of a dependent child.

Then the child/adult must return to the village as an adult, ready to on adult responsibilities.

The Basis of the The Basis of the JourneyJourney


Like the rite of passage, the journey requires a separation from the comfortable known world: and initiation to a new level of awareness, skill and responsibility ; and the return to the world.

This pattern is not simply the invention of the ancient storytellers. It is part of the human process of growth and discovery.

Like the rite of passage, the journey requires a separation from the comfortable known world: and initiation to a new level of awareness, skill and responsibility ; and the return to the world.

This pattern is not simply the invention of the ancient storytellers. It is part of the human process of growth and discovery.



The Journey can be divided into eight different stages. Each if these must be passed successfully if the initiate is to become a hero. To turn back at any point would mean our initiate is rejecting his own need to grow and mature.

The Journey can be divided into eight different stages. Each if these must be passed successfully if the initiate is to become a hero. To turn back at any point would mean our initiate is rejecting his own need to grow and mature.



The SeparationThe SeparationThe SeparationThe Separation

The Call: invites the initiate into the adventure, offers him the opportunity to face the unknown and gain something of physical and spiritual value. The initiate may choose willingly to undertake the quest, or s/he is thrust into the adventure, whether s/he likes or not.

The Call: invites the initiate into the adventure, offers him the opportunity to face the unknown and gain something of physical and spiritual value. The initiate may choose willingly to undertake the quest, or s/he is thrust into the adventure, whether s/he likes or not.

The SeparationThe SeparationThe SeparationThe Separation The Threshold: is the point at which the

initiate leaves the known to enter the unknown. It is the “jumping off point” between everyday life and adventure.

At this point, the initiate will encounter a helper(s) or a guide. Helpers provide assistance or direction. The help may come in a form of a divine gift, such as a talisman which will help in the ordeal ahead.

The Threshold: is the point at which the initiate leaves the known to enter the unknown. It is the “jumping off point” between everyday life and adventure.

At this point, the initiate will encounter a helper(s) or a guide. Helpers provide assistance or direction. The help may come in a form of a divine gift, such as a talisman which will help in the ordeal ahead.

The SeparationThe SeparationThe SeparationThe Separation

The Descent: may not actually involve “descending: into something. It is rather, a voyage in to uncharted territory, either physical or mental. The initiate gets farther and farther into the unknown, becoming more at risk.

The Descent: may not actually involve “descending: into something. It is rather, a voyage in to uncharted territory, either physical or mental. The initiate gets farther and farther into the unknown, becoming more at risk.

The InitiationThe InitiationThe InitiationThe Initiation

Tests and Ordeals: On his/her quest, the initiate faces a series a tests and ordeals which challenge him to the utmost, force him/her to grow physically or mentally.

Into the Abyss: When s/he reaches the Abyss, the initiate faces the greatest danger and challenge of the journey.

Tests and Ordeals: On his/her quest, the initiate faces a series a tests and ordeals which challenge him to the utmost, force him/her to grow physically or mentally.

Into the Abyss: When s/he reaches the Abyss, the initiate faces the greatest danger and challenge of the journey.

The InitiationThe InitiationThe InitiationThe Initiation

The Transformation: As the initiate meets the challenge of the abyss and overcomes his/her fear, s/he is transformed. The transformation is a moment of death and rebirth: some part of the initiate dies so that a new part can be born.

The Transformation: As the initiate meets the challenge of the abyss and overcomes his/her fear, s/he is transformed. The transformation is a moment of death and rebirth: some part of the initiate dies so that a new part can be born.

The InitiationThe InitiationThe InitiationThe Initiation The Revelation/Atonement: After the

initiate has been transformed, he goes on to achieve atonement; that is to say, s/he is “at one” with a new self and life. The initiate is now truly a hero.

Here s/he is given a “boon” a gift which bestowed based on the new level of skill and awareness. S/he may be stronger or richer; s/he may become a better leader or a more able fighter; s/he may be enlightened spiritually.

The Revelation/Atonement: After the initiate has been transformed, he goes on to achieve atonement; that is to say, s/he is “at one” with a new self and life. The initiate is now truly a hero.

Here s/he is given a “boon” a gift which bestowed based on the new level of skill and awareness. S/he may be stronger or richer; s/he may become a better leader or a more able fighter; s/he may be enlightened spiritually.

The ReturnThe ReturnThe ReturnThe Return

After the transformation and atonement, the hero faces one of the most difficult stages of the journey; s/he must return to everyday life to begin the labor of bringing the boon back to humanity. The hero and boon may renew the community, found a nation, create a great order.

After the transformation and atonement, the hero faces one of the most difficult stages of the journey; s/he must return to everyday life to begin the labor of bringing the boon back to humanity. The hero and boon may renew the community, found a nation, create a great order.

The ReturnThe ReturnThe ReturnThe Return

Sometimes, however, things don’t go smoothly. The hero(ine) finds frustration with the state of the world as s/he tries to maintain the new-found cosmic viewpoint in a fragmented world.

Sometimes, however, things don’t go smoothly. The hero(ine) finds frustration with the state of the world as s/he tries to maintain the new-found cosmic viewpoint in a fragmented world.

Jason and the Golden Jason and the Golden FleeceFleece

Jason and the Golden Jason and the Golden FleeceFleece

Gathering of HeroesGathering of HeroesGathering of HeroesGathering of Heroes

Like an all-star baseball team, people enjoy seeing the best of the best join together to compete. The Argonauts are the Greek version of the Justice League- all the greatest heroes together on one team.

Like an all-star baseball team, people enjoy seeing the best of the best join together to compete. The Argonauts are the Greek version of the Justice League- all the greatest heroes together on one team.

JasonJasonJasonJason Jason’s father, King Aeson, had the

kingdom stolen from him by Pelias. When Jason was born, his parents feared that Pelias would try to kill the child to prevent the kingdom being taken back at a later time.

Therefore, Jason’s parents announced his death and pretended to mourn their son, but secretly sent him away to a place of safety.

Jason’s father, King Aeson, had the kingdom stolen from him by Pelias. When Jason was born, his parents feared that Pelias would try to kill the child to prevent the kingdom being taken back at a later time.

Therefore, Jason’s parents announced his death and pretended to mourn their son, but secretly sent him away to a place of safety.

Jason cont…Jason cont…Jason cont…Jason cont…

Jason journeys to regain the throne his uncle Peleas stole from his father. His uncle sends him on a quest to acquire the magical Golden Fleece, located in Colchus at the end of the world. To achieve this, he assembles the greatest heroes of Greece including Theseus, Atalanta and the powerful Hercules.

Jason journeys to regain the throne his uncle Peleas stole from his father. His uncle sends him on a quest to acquire the magical Golden Fleece, located in Colchus at the end of the world. To achieve this, he assembles the greatest heroes of Greece including Theseus, Atalanta and the powerful Hercules.

The Education of JasonThe Education of JasonThe Education of JasonThe Education of Jason

Jason was smuggled into the countryside where he was raised by the wise centaur Chiron, who also taught both the mighty Heracles and the future warrior, Achilles.

Jason was smuggled into the countryside where he was raised by the wise centaur Chiron, who also taught both the mighty Heracles and the future warrior, Achilles.

HeraclesHeraclesHeraclesHeracles The greatest of the

Greek heroes is Heracles, the son of Zeus. From birth, his strength far surpassed that of any mortal. Hated by Hera, he is driven mad by the goddess and murders his family. In retribution, he undertakes twelve deadly labors.

The greatest of the Greek heroes is Heracles, the son of Zeus. From birth, his strength far surpassed that of any mortal. Hated by Hera, he is driven mad by the goddess and murders his family. In retribution, he undertakes twelve deadly labors.

AtalantaAtalantaAtalantaAtalanta

The only female hero of the Greek myths, Atalanta was raised by bears and showed great skill as a hunter. She defeated Peleus in a wrestling match and was a featured participant in killing the terrible Caledonian Boar.

The only female hero of the Greek myths, Atalanta was raised by bears and showed great skill as a hunter. She defeated Peleus in a wrestling match and was a featured participant in killing the terrible Caledonian Boar.

As a follower of Artemis, she refused to marry any man, unless he could beat her in a foot race. By distracting her with Aphrodite’s golden apples, Melanion wins the race and her love.

OrpheusOrpheusOrpheusOrpheus

Orpheus descends into the underworld of Hades to retrieve his deceased bride, Eurydice. He sings the three headed guard dog, Cerberus, to sleep and makes Hades cry with his music. He loses his love when he turns back to look at her despite Hades’ warning. Orpheus meets his fate at the hands of the Mineads, the crazed female followers of Dionysus, who tear the musician apart with their hands.

Orpheus descends into the underworld of Hades to retrieve his deceased bride, Eurydice. He sings the three headed guard dog, Cerberus, to sleep and makes Hades cry with his music. He loses his love when he turns back to look at her despite Hades’ warning. Orpheus meets his fate at the hands of the Mineads, the crazed female followers of Dionysus, who tear the musician apart with their hands.

TheseusTheseusTheseusTheseus

Theseus journeys to Athens to meet his father, fighting bandits and murderers along the road. He then travels to Crete and, with the help of Princess Ariadne, enters the labyrinth and slays the Minotaur.

Theseus journeys to Athens to meet his father, fighting bandits and murderers along the road. He then travels to Crete and, with the help of Princess Ariadne, enters the labyrinth and slays the Minotaur.

The Other ArgonautsThe Other ArgonautsThe Other ArgonautsThe Other Argonauts Calais and Zetes- Sons of the North Wind

who had winged feet. Pirithous-Theseus’ friend who loved

Persephone and for her sake descended to Hades.

Periclymenus- Poseidon granted him the power of changing his shape.

Nestor- A famous charioteer,. in old age he went to the war in Troy.

Hylas- Hercules squire,drowned by Nymphs and disappeared.

Autolycus- Son of Hermes who was a master thief .

Castor and Polydueces- Twins who excelled at wrestling and boxing.

Peleus- Future father of Greece’s greatest warrior, Achilles.

Calais and Zetes- Sons of the North Wind who had winged feet.

Pirithous-Theseus’ friend who loved Persephone and for her sake descended to Hades.

Periclymenus- Poseidon granted him the power of changing his shape.

Nestor- A famous charioteer,. in old age he went to the war in Troy.

Hylas- Hercules squire,drowned by Nymphs and disappeared.

Autolycus- Son of Hermes who was a master thief .

Castor and Polydueces- Twins who excelled at wrestling and boxing.

Peleus- Future father of Greece’s greatest warrior, Achilles.

The ArgoThe ArgoThe ArgoThe Argo

Built by Argo/Argus, the greatest ship builder of the time, and named after him.

The Argo could outrace any other ship of its day.

Built by Argo/Argus, the greatest ship builder of the time, and named after him.

The Argo could outrace any other ship of its day.

The Argo cont…The Argo cont…The Argo cont…The Argo cont… In the bow of the ship was a piece of wood

from the oak grove at Dodona, which was where the oracle of Zeus resided. A wind rustled the leaves of the trees, the oaks reportedly made sounds which would then be interpreted as prophecies from Zeus.

Since this sacred wood was used to make the prow, the ship’s figure head supposedly had the magical power of speech.

In the bow of the ship was a piece of wood from the oak grove at Dodona, which was where the oracle of Zeus resided. A wind rustled the leaves of the trees, the oaks reportedly made sounds which would then be interpreted as prophecies from Zeus.

Since this sacred wood was used to make the prow, the ship’s figure head supposedly had the magical power of speech.

The Argo cont…The Argo cont…The Argo cont…The Argo cont…

The ship carried the Argonauts across the Adriatic up to the northern reaches of the Black Sea to the land of Colchis.

The ship carried the Argonauts across the Adriatic up to the northern reaches of the Black Sea to the land of Colchis.

The VoyageThe VoyageThe VoyageThe Voyage

AmazonsAmazonsAmazonsAmazons

The Argonauts’ first stop was on an island inhabited only by women.

The Argonauts’ first stop was on an island inhabited only by women.

The Death of HylasThe Death of HylasThe Death of HylasThe Death of Hylas

When stopping for food and water, Hercules’ squire, Hylas, is lured into a river by the nymphs and drowns. Hercules stays behind when the Argo sets sail to continue the search for his missing friend.

When stopping for food and water, Hercules’ squire, Hylas, is lured into a river by the nymphs and drowns. Hercules stays behind when the Argo sets sail to continue the search for his missing friend.

The SirensThe SirensThe SirensThe Sirens The Argo must sail

past the dreadful Sirens, women who lure sailors to their death with their beautiful song. Orpheus saves the Argonauts by overwhelming the Sirens’ song with his beautiful music.

The Argo must sail past the dreadful Sirens, women who lure sailors to their death with their beautiful song. Orpheus saves the Argonauts by overwhelming the Sirens’ song with his beautiful music.

HarpiesHarpiesHarpiesHarpies

Jason and his crew land on the island of the blind prophet, Phineas, who is plagued by terrible bird women, the harpies.

Jason and his crew land on the island of the blind prophet, Phineas, who is plagued by terrible bird women, the harpies.

TalosTalosTalosTalos

The last of the ancient race of violent, bronze men, Talos hurls rocks at the Argo as it sails past his island.

The last of the ancient race of violent, bronze men, Talos hurls rocks at the Argo as it sails past his island.

MedeaMedeaMedeaMedea

King Aetes welcomes Jason but will only hand over the fleece if he can pass two tests.Aphrodite favors Jason by causing the king’s daughter, Medea, to fall in love with Jason. She uses her magic to aid Jason in his quest.

King Aetes welcomes Jason but will only hand over the fleece if he can pass two tests.Aphrodite favors Jason by causing the king’s daughter, Medea, to fall in love with Jason. She uses her magic to aid Jason in his quest.

Taming the BullsTaming the BullsTaming the BullsTaming the Bulls

Jason’s first task is to tame the fire-breathing, bronze bulls and yoke them to a plow.

Medea gives Jason an ointment to protect his body from the bulls’ flames.

Jason’s first task is to tame the fire-breathing, bronze bulls and yoke them to a plow.

Medea gives Jason an ointment to protect his body from the bulls’ flames.

The Sown MenThe Sown MenThe Sown MenThe Sown Men

The second test is to plow the field with the bulls sowing dragons teeth as seeds. Instantly from the seeds grow armed warriors who attack Jason. He diverts them by throwing a rock so that they fight each other.

The second test is to plow the field with the bulls sowing dragons teeth as seeds. Instantly from the seeds grow armed warriors who attack Jason. He diverts them by throwing a rock so that they fight each other.

Taking the FleeceTaking the FleeceTaking the FleeceTaking the Fleece

With the help of Medea’s spells and Orpheus’s music, Jason is able to steal the fleece from the sleeping serpent.

With the help of Medea’s spells and Orpheus’s music, Jason is able to steal the fleece from the sleeping serpent.

The Pursuit of King The Pursuit of King AetesAetes

The Pursuit of King The Pursuit of King AetesAetes

King Aetes and the Colchians board their ship in pursuit of the Argonauts. Medea thwarts her father by killing her brother and chopping him into bits so he must stop to collect the parts of his son.

King Aetes and the Colchians board their ship in pursuit of the Argonauts. Medea thwarts her father by killing her brother and chopping him into bits so he must stop to collect the parts of his son.

Medea’s revengeMedea’s revengeMedea’s revengeMedea’s revenge

Long after the return, Jason wrongs Medea by marrying a princess. Medea takes revenge by poisoning the princess and murdering her Jason’s sons before flying off in a chariot pulled by dragons.

Long after the return, Jason wrongs Medea by marrying a princess. Medea takes revenge by poisoning the princess and murdering her Jason’s sons before flying off in a chariot pulled by dragons.

JasonJasonJasonJason

Jason lives to be an old man. One day, while walking on the beach, he comes upon the rotting hull of the Argo. Weary, he rests for a while in the shade of the old ship’s prow. As he sleeps, the bow breaks off, crushing the king beneath it.

Jason lives to be an old man. One day, while walking on the beach, he comes upon the rotting hull of the Argo. Weary, he rests for a while in the shade of the old ship’s prow. As he sleeps, the bow breaks off, crushing the king beneath it.

Perseus Perseus Perseus Perseus King Acresias and Danae Polydectes loved Danae,

Perseus protects by offering Medusa’s head

Athena’s shield, nymph’s invisibility helmet, winged sandals, and magic pouch, Hermes’ knife

He succeeds Pegasus born Saved Andromeda, froze

her family for deceit Also froze Polydectes for

hassling Danae

King Acresias and Danae Polydectes loved Danae,

Perseus protects by offering Medusa’s head

Athena’s shield, nymph’s invisibility helmet, winged sandals, and magic pouch, Hermes’ knife

He succeeds Pegasus born Saved Andromeda, froze

her family for deceit Also froze Polydectes for

hassling Danae

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Monday, August 24 Learning Target: I can identify archetypes and how they relate to mythology. Focus Question: Find a word in your IR novel that you