Myths, Legends, Myths, Legends, and and

Fairy TalesFairy Tales

MythsMyths

What is a Myth?What is a Myth?

from the Greek word mythos meaning "word of mouth”

widely thought to be fictional

concern the origins of the world or how the world and the creatures in it came to be in their present form

Thor, the god of Norse mythology. "Tors strid med jättarna" (1872), painting by Marten Eskil Winge.

What is a Myth?What is a Myth?

generally are about gods and heroes

are often said to take place before recorded history begins

In early times, myths were considered sacred or religiously true.

Medusa by Caravaggio, rotella (tournament shield). Oil on canvas mounted on wood, dated from 1592 to 1600.

Famous MythsFamous Myths

The Twelve Labors of Hercules

Theseus escaping the labyrinth and killing the Minotaur

Creation Myths from many cultures/religions around the world

The snake-headed Medusa

LegendsLegends

What is a Legend?What is a Legend?

from the Latin word legenda meaning "things to be read”

legends are believable, although not necessarily believed

are exaggerated stories of real people or events from history

“Atlantis” illustration by Lloyd K. Townsend.

What is a Legend?What is a Legend?

legends are about someone who probably did exist but have been twisted to seem more interesting and fascinating

are fabulous stories that have some historical basis

The main characters in legends are often respected and remembered by people, despite passing away several centuries ago

“King Arthur” by Peter Vischer in Hofkirche (Innsbruck)

Famous LegendsFamous Legends

King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table

Robin Hood robbing from the rich to give to the poor

The legend of the lost city of Atlantis

The quest for the Holy Grail

Fairy TalesFairy Tales

What is a Fairy Tale?What is a Fairy Tale?

a fictional story that may feature characters such as fairies, goblins, elves, trolls, witches, giants, or talking animals

often involves a far-fetched sequence of events

“Little Red Riding Hood” illustration by Gustave Dore

What is a Fairy Tale?What is a Fairy Tale?

they are usually not connected to religion or actual places, persons, or events

they take place "once upon a time" rather than in actual times

older fairy tales were intended for adults as well as children

Ivan Bilibin’s illustration of the Russian fairy tale about “Vasilissa the Beautiful”.

Famous Fairy TalesFamous Fairy Tales

Cinderella Little Red Riding Hood

Sleeping Beauty Snow White and the Seven Dwarves