1.1 Defining Myth and Its Functions

Myths are ancient stories that explain the world and shape cultures. They involve supernatural beings, heroes, and divine figures, serving as foundational narratives that pass down through generations and form cultural identities.

Myths have various functions, from explaining natural phenomena to reinforcing societal norms. They use symbolic language to convey complex ideas, address universal human experiences, and provide frameworks for understanding the world's structure and divine order.

Definition and Scope

Understanding Myth and Mythology

Top images from around the web for Understanding Myth and Mythology

• 

  mrminixeducation - Ancient Rome View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  5c. Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes | HUM 101 Introduction to Humanities View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Roman festivals - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  mrminixeducation - Ancient Rome View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  5c. Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes | HUM 101 Introduction to Humanities View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Understanding Myth and Mythology

• 

  mrminixeducation - Ancient Rome View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  5c. Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes | HUM 101 Introduction to Humanities View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Roman festivals - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  mrminixeducation - Ancient Rome View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  5c. Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes | HUM 101 Introduction to Humanities View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Myth encompasses traditional stories that explain natural phenomena, cultural practices, or historical events
• Myths often involve supernatural beings, heroes, or divine figures
• Mythology refers to the collective body of myths from a particular culture or religion
• Myths serve as foundational narratives that shape cultural identity and worldviews
• Traditional myths pass down orally through generations before being recorded in written form

Exploring Cosmogony and Theogony

• Cosmogony describes myths that explain the origin and creation of the universe
• Cosmogonic myths address fundamental questions about existence and the nature of reality
• Theogony focuses on myths detailing the origin and genealogy of gods or divine beings
• Theogonic narratives establish hierarchies and relationships among deities
• Both cosmogony and theogony provide frameworks for understanding the world's structure and divine order

Functions of Myth

Explaining the World: Etiological and Symbolic Functions

• Etiological function of myths explains natural phenomena, cultural practices, or historical events
• Etiological myths provide answers to questions about why things are the way they are (origin of seasons)
• Symbolic function uses metaphorical language and imagery to convey complex ideas
• Symbols in myths represent abstract concepts, emotions, or universal truths
• Symbolic interpretations of myths reveal deeper meanings beyond literal narratives

Psychological and Societal Impacts of Myths

• Psychological function addresses universal human experiences and emotions
• Myths offer archetypes and patterns that resonate with the human psyche
• Psychological interpretations of myths explore themes of personal growth and self-discovery
• Societal function reinforces cultural norms, values, and social structures
• Myths provide models for behavior and establish moral codes within a community
• Societal myths often justify existing power structures or explain social hierarchies