Free Essay: Foundations of Mythology Short Answers
How is the word myth used popularly? For example, what does the statement, “It’s a myth” mean? In contrast, how is the word myth used in the academic context? After considering the definition in your textbooks and course materials, write a definition in your own words.
Most people use the word ‘myth’ to indicate a culturally significant tale, which gives a concrete account of the culture, i.e. the genesis of actions and relationships and individual roles in the same cultural setting. A myth offers explanation to the origin of some phenomenon justifying cultural practices and beliefs and tells the religious, political and moral values of people. “It’s a myth” implies that the story is not factual. It is a story in form of a rumor since no one can prove the occurrences. People need logical meanings in life for the sake of their beliefs and this creates the need to turn to myths. Academically, a myth refers to a traditional story detailing an outstanding character or event, in which there is no need facts or natural explanations. Common stories are about deities and demigods, explaining natural phenomena, practices, and rites. Personally, a myth is a narrative relating to people, developed to appreciate societal values and actions.
Why do myths from different cultures around the world address such similar or universal themes? Think about how myths explain the unknown and the tribulations of mankind.
It is true that myths from varying world cultures address specific themes even though they take varying angles. Thus, myths provide a link among cultures since the stories are passed on to generations. Notably, universal myths propagate shared views regarding literature, values and beliefs, explaining our existence, our purpose, and our behavior. In some cases, people feel that myths are entertainment pieces since they are always a collection of interesting stories. Others opine that it is a fascination way to connect with cultural gods, important lessons in life, and heroes. Human beings believe in a supernatural being or high power even though they do this in different ways. They seek clarification on things they do not know since they are horrified by strange things. Through these themes in different myths, we see universal concerns in people pertaining origin of race and the planet, good versus bad, birth, death and the spiritual world. These are the main areas in human life, which use myths to offer explanation.
What is the relationship between belief, knowledge, mythology, and religion? Where do mythology and religion intersect? Where do they diverge? Think about the function of myth and religion in helping human beings cope with change, suffering, loss, and death.
Belief, knowledge, mythology, and religion relate in a special ways as they capture human stories about good against bad, including coping strategies to overcome evil. In particular, religion and mythology are crucial to specific groups of people with regard to supernatural powers. Noteworthy, myths are essential components of religion. The word ‘mythos’ is derived from a Greek word ‘mythos,’ which means history. Mythology of culture came into being long ago from recordings believed to offer explanation to the origins of surrounding phenomena. Nonetheless, new meanings of the phenomena emerged with time. For instance, new religion offered new and more acceptable explanations of phenomena, rendering previous myths as obsolete. Religion like Islam and Christianity capture active and valid beliefs among given groups of people. For example, Christianity is a religion because Christians consider it as true. This gave humanity a way of dealing with changes, suffering, loss, and death. Experts argue that new religions will replace the current similar to what happened to Egyptian and Norse religions with the arrival of Christianity and Islam.
How would you defend mythology’s relevance in contemporary culture? Think about familiar and cultural traditions. Also, consider how mythology is used in the arts and in advertising to typify the human experience.
Mythology has significantly influenced literature advancement in modern day world. For example, artists and poets continue to draw inspiration from myths to display the relevance of the artwork in the contemporary world. Before the coming of print and technology, people documented their lives mainly through tales. Storytelling therefore formed a core component of mythology in explaining cultural origins, heroes, deities, and history.
Ancient teachings in myths offer a blueprint for modern and future artists. In recent days, this is being passed on through films, cultural traditions and theatrical works, which denote the family structure. In ancient days, myths were conveyed through word of mouth, an approach applied in modern adverts and announcements. In some cases, stories and art have new mythical elements like literally tactic to expand the span of the story in those who see possible explanations. A good example is The Lord of Rings, a movie that motivates people to become selfless and heroic. It also allows spiritual renewal and with the encouragement of saving the earth.