Introduction to Mythology

What it is and what it does

What is Mythology?

• Mythology, like other “ologies,” is the study of something. Of course, it is the study of myth.

• Well then, what is a “myth?”

A myth is…

A myth is a story used to explain one or more of three basic things:

1. Natural Phenomena

2. Social Customs/Tradition

3. Human Behavior

TO EXPLAIN NATURAL PHENOMENA

Cosmological Function of Myth• Explains…

• Creation and extinction

• Storms, weather, geological functions, the sun and moon

• Agricultural/fertility cycles

• The seasons

TO EXPLAIN SOCIAL SYSTEMS

Sociological Function of Myth• Traditions• Changes in ruler or ruling class• Dietary rules/forbidden

customs• Changes in the status of

particular groups (such as women)

• Relationships among nations

TO EXPLAIN HUMAN BEHAVIOR

Humanistic Function of Myth• Explains elements of

human nature such as:• Hopes, beliefs,

aspirations• Pride, envy, ambition,

honor, trust, generosity, love, etc.

Two important elements of myth

• There are two elements that apply pretty much across the board to myths:

• 1. Supernatural Elements

• 2. Anthropomorphic Elements

SUPERNATURAL ELEMENTS

Myths deal with gods and superhuman heroes (individuals with abilities beyond those of ordinary mortals.)

Which is very important. But, in the words of a famous Greek…

“Wisdom begins with sense.”- Aristotle

Which simply means that as humans, our sensual experience of the world is what defines everything! What we see, touch, taste, hear, and smell is what allows us to understand the world.

Which of course brings us to…

ANTHROPOMORPHIC ELEMENTS

• Myths explain things in away that makes sense to humans

• The supernatural is directly involved in human experience

• Even gods have human emotions and are motivated by human desires like lust, envy, revenge, etc.

Urban legends, Folklore, & Myth

Urban Legends

Folklore Mythology

Stories with a plot, supposedly current and true, based on contemporary reality, “could happen to you.”

Stories passed down via oral and written record, superstitious, didactic, pointed lesson

Stories that explain the origins of man, social customs, and human behavior.

So what do they have in common?

?

Common Elements of Urban Legend, Folklore/Fairy Tales,

and Myth:

• Oral and written heritage

• Can teach us about people - history, customs, culture, etc.

• Carry warnings and moral lessons