What is Mythology?

8th Grade ELA

What is Mythology?

• A traditional narrative or story. • The people of ancient Greece shared stories

called myths about gods, goddesses, and heroes which they believed.

• Each god or goddess was worshipped as a deity and ruled over certain areas of the Greeks’ lives.

• Question: What is the genre that contains mythology?

What is the purpose of myths?

• The purpose of a myth is to explain how the world came to be and how customs and traditions were established.

• Example: – Daedalus and Icarus – Obeying your parents

Common Themes in Mythology

• A theme is the central message of a work of literature.

• Some common themes found in myths include, but are not limited to:– Creation– Floods– Love– Heroes– Death

Who were the gods and goddesses of Ancient Greece?

Why Should We Study Greek Mythology?

• The Ancient Greek culture has been kept alive by oral and later written stories for thousands of years.

• Modern plays, novels, television programs, movies , and advertisements refer to Greek gods, goddesses, and heroes.

• Adventurous and exciting stories that delight and entertain us.

Questions?