Greek Mythology9T H GRADE LITERATURE

INTRODUCTION TO THE ODYSSEY

What in the world does MYTHOLOGY mean??

The definition of a MYTH is:◦ a traditional story, especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining some natural or

social phenomenon, and typically involving supernatural beings or events.

◦ Example of a well-known myths:◦ Black cats are evil or represent evil or bad luck.

The definition of –ology is:◦ A subject of study

◦ So MYTHOLOGY means: The study of traditional stories, especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining some natural or social phenomenon, and typically involving supernatural beings or events.

But we are talking about GREEK mythology…

Greek Mythology are the beliefs and ritual observances of the ancient Greeks, who became the first Western civilization about 2000 BC.

Characteristics of Greek Mythology

Greek gods resembled humans in form and showed human emotions.

Greek mythology did not involve special revelations or spiritual teachings, unlike other ancient religions (Hinduism/Judaism).

Varied widely in practice and belief.

No formal structure, such as a church government.

No written code, such as a sacred book.

Home of Greek Mythology • The Greeks believed that the gods

chose Mount Olympus as their home. • On Olympus, the gods formed a society

that ranked them in terms of authority and power.

• However, the gods were able to roam freely.

• The 12 chief gods, commonly referred to as the Olympians, were Zeus, Hera, Hephaestus, Athena, Apollo, Artemis, Ares, Aphrodite, Hestia, Hermes, Demeter, and Poseidon.

Greek God videoHTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=GGD1K3I1XRU

Okay…let’s simplify that…

Cronus & Rhea Cronus- son of Uranus (Heaven) & Gaia (Earth), youngest of the 12 Titans. Father of Hestia, Demeter, Hera, Hades, Poseidon and Zeus. Married to Rhea.

Rhea- daughter of Uranus & Gaia, one of the Titans. Mother of Hestia, Demeter, Hera, Hades, Poseidon and Zeus. Married to Cronus. Helped Zeus sneak away and eventually overthrow Cronus.

**read story of Cronus & Rhea**

Now, it’s your turn… Now that you have the background on the origination of the Greek Gods, you need to find out more details!

In groups of _____, you will be responsible for researching 1 of the Olympus gods. You and your group need to become experts on this god because you will be in charge of teaching your classmates about them.

The more you understand about the role and relationships of each god now, the easier it will be to understand the epic poem, The Odyssey.