MythologyAugust 30-31

Basham

MythologyA category of writing is

called Genre. Mythology falls in the category or genre of Folklore.

FolktalesGenerally know to be FictitiousAbout a specific geographical

areaOften has magic

Examples: Paul Bunyan, Johnny Appleseed

LegendsStory based on a historic event,

fact, or personNot typically moralLimited involvement of gods and

supernatural forcesExamples: King Author and the Knights of the Round Table, Atlantis

FablesEmphasis on the moral of

the storyAnimals often talk

Examples: The Boy Who Cried Wolf, The Tortoise and the Hare

MythsExplain how things began or

why they happenInvolve Gods and the

supernaturalReflect the cultural beliefs of a

particular peopleExamples: The Odyssey, The Iliad

What you should know about Myths:

cultures create myths to explain their origins

all cultures use myths to preserve and spread values and traditions

What you should know about Myths:

similar myths exist in every culture

differences in creation myths reflect the uniqueness of each culture

What you should learn about Myths:

How do different cultures explain how the world begun?

How do different peoples explain how man was created?

What you should learn about Myths:

What are the similarities and differences in creation myths from around the world?

What unique cultural traits are revealed in myths?

What can we learn about ourselves through myths?

Purposes of Myths:

Myths grant continuity and stability to a culture.

Myths present guidelines for living.

Purposes of Myths:

Myths explain the unexplained.

Myths offer role models.