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Mythology

 

            
            
             The term myth has multiple meanings. Webster's Dictionary, defines it as, "A traditional story that deals with supernatural beings, ancestors, or heroes that serve as primordial types in a primitive view of the world." Joseph Campbell, the esteemed author of The Power of the Myth, describes myths as creation stories in which "the characters and situations stand for something more abstract which can only be experienced; not explained." Due to this, he feels that myths should be interpreted metaphorically because they are meant to be representative of thoughts; they go beyond language itself. Myths should not be thought of as imaginary or useless; the possibility for the myth to be real should always be considered. Throughout history there have been many attempts to explain the origin and workings of the universe. Most every culture has its own creation ideas of the world.
             Myths served specific purposes in their culture. The main function of myths was to explain the creation of the world and the universe. For example, many myths begin their creation ideas as starting with a great flood, followed by the appearance of gods, and ending with the creation of animals and humans. Myths also explain natural phenomena such as the setting of the sun and the phases of the moon. Many times the originators created these myths to give reason and provide a sense of ease as to what was happening in the world. Myths tend to explain the nature of gods/ goddesses and the interaction between the humans and deities. The conditions that were needed in order for man to exist, though different in many myths, were a prime characteristic of them all. Historical beliefs, cultures, rituals, and customs were also explained within myths. Today, we find that a function of myths is to teach moral lessons and provide us with wisdom. .
             We should care about myths because of their relevance in today's world. The themes in which myths possess have to do with inner thoughts/ deep ideas, which don't die out as time passes.


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