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Mythology -- background

Mythology -- background. Folktale and Legends. Folktale: a story that, in its plot, is pure fiction and has no particular location in either time or space. Usually a symbolic way of presenting differing means by which humans cope with the world in which they live in

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Mythology -- background

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  1. Mythology -- background

  2. Folktale and Legends Folktale: a story that, in its plot, is pure fiction and has no particular location in either time or space. Usually a symbolic way of presenting differing means by which humans cope with the world in which they live in Often referred to as fairy tales.

  3. F and L cont… Legends: a story from the past about a subject that was, or is still believed to be, historical. These concern people, places, and events. It is always associated with a particular place and time in history

  4. Mythology -- A set of stories, traditions, or beliefs associated with a particular group or the history of an event, arising naturally or deliberately fostered. an embodiment of people’s perceptions of the deepest truths

  5. Purpose: To give order and a frame of meaning to people’s personal perceptions To explain the nature of the universe (creation/fertility) To instruct the community members on attitudes and behavior necessary to function successfully in a culture (Hero/epic)

  6. Fundamental Questions: Who am I? What is the nature of the universe in which I live? How do I relate to that universe? How much control do I have over my life? What must I do in order to survive? How can I lead a satisfying life? How can I balance my desires with my responsibilities to my family and community? (Hero myths) How can I reconcile myself to the inevitability of death?

  7. How Myths Develop: Rationalistic interpretation: All that is incredible or fantastic in myth is explained by what is naturally possible. Metaphorical interpretation: Myths are viewed as ancient tales hiding profound meanings. All myths are allegories revealing fundamental “truths” that are the same for all people.

  8. Four Classes of Myths: True Myth: an attempt to explain a natural event, such as a rumbling volcano, in a pre-science world (Echo) Saga Myth: essentially factual events from history colored by ancient storytellers (Trojan War)

  9. Classes cont… Fairy Tales: stories created just to entertain (Pygmalion) Psychological Myths: designed to explain human behavior (Narcissus)

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