Podcast
Questions and Answers
What does the word 'mythos' mean in Greek?
What does the word 'mythos' mean in Greek?
What are the two main functions of myths according to Robert Graves?
What are the two main functions of myths according to Robert Graves?
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of mythology?
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of mythology?
What is the most important aspect to consider when reading a myth?
What is the most important aspect to consider when reading a myth?
Signup and view all the answers
Why are myths still relevant today?
Why are myths still relevant today?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of an epic hero?
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of an epic hero?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a key element that distinguishes epic literature from other genres?
What is a key element that distinguishes epic literature from other genres?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following is NOT an example of a supernatural or otherworldly force that might be present in an epic story?
Which of the following is NOT an example of a supernatural or otherworldly force that might be present in an epic story?
Signup and view all the answers
According to the presented text, what is the primary purpose of studying world myths and archetypes?
According to the presented text, what is the primary purpose of studying world myths and archetypes?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the term used by Carl Jung to describe recurring patterns of behavior and personality that are prevalent across cultures?
What is the term used by Carl Jung to describe recurring patterns of behavior and personality that are prevalent across cultures?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a defining characteristic of an epic hero?
What is a defining characteristic of an epic hero?
Signup and view all the answers
What role does the Mentor serve in the hero's journey?
What role does the Mentor serve in the hero's journey?
Signup and view all the answers
Why is the character archetype known as 'The Shadow' significant?
Why is the character archetype known as 'The Shadow' significant?
Signup and view all the answers
In an epic hero narrative, what is often at stake for the hero?
In an epic hero narrative, what is often at stake for the hero?
Signup and view all the answers
What typically happens to the Mentor during the hero's journey?
What typically happens to the Mentor during the hero's journey?
Signup and view all the answers
What role does the Companion play in a hero's journey?
What role does the Companion play in a hero's journey?
Signup and view all the answers
Which character archetype is known for attempting to prevent the hero from completing their journey?
Which character archetype is known for attempting to prevent the hero from completing their journey?
Signup and view all the answers
In the context of the character archetypes, what is often the outcome of the Trickster's actions?
In the context of the character archetypes, what is often the outcome of the Trickster's actions?
Signup and view all the answers
What common characteristic do the 12 Olympians share?
What common characteristic do the 12 Olympians share?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following is NOT typically a trait of the Damsel in Distress?
Which of the following is NOT typically a trait of the Damsel in Distress?
Signup and view all the answers
Which legendary figure often represents the archetype of The Monster/Dragon?
Which legendary figure often represents the archetype of The Monster/Dragon?
Signup and view all the answers
Which character archetype is described as someone who intentionally breaks societal rules?
Which character archetype is described as someone who intentionally breaks societal rules?
Signup and view all the answers
What does the archetype of The Absent Parent signify in hero narratives?
What does the archetype of The Absent Parent signify in hero narratives?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following is NOT an element of an Epic?
Which of the following is NOT an element of an Epic?
Signup and view all the answers
Why are myths important to study?
Why are myths important to study?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the role of the gods in the Homerian epics?
What is the role of the gods in the Homerian epics?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the significance of the phrase 'in medias res' in relation to epic poetry?
What is the significance of the phrase 'in medias res' in relation to epic poetry?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the primary conflict in The Iliad?
What is the primary conflict in The Iliad?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the significance of the Trojan War in the context of the Homerian epics?
What is the significance of the Trojan War in the context of the Homerian epics?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following is an example of a mythical allusion?
Which of the following is an example of a mythical allusion?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the main characteristic of the concept of Xenia?
What is the main characteristic of the concept of Xenia?
Signup and view all the answers
How does the concept of hubris contribute to the problems encountered in Greek society?
How does the concept of hubris contribute to the problems encountered in Greek society?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the main difference between Penelope's faithfulness and Odysseus' affairs?
What is the main difference between Penelope's faithfulness and Odysseus' affairs?
Signup and view all the answers
How does Homer utilize similes and metaphors in his epic poetry?
How does Homer utilize similes and metaphors in his epic poetry?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the significance of the Trojan Horse in the story of Odysseus?
What is the significance of the Trojan Horse in the story of Odysseus?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the main point of Homeric epithets, such as 'grey-eyed goddess Athena'?
What is the main point of Homeric epithets, such as 'grey-eyed goddess Athena'?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a traditional epic poem?
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a traditional epic poem?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the role of fate in the story of Odysseus?
What is the role of fate in the story of Odysseus?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following is NOT a key event that occurs during Odysseus's voyage home in the Odyssey?
Which of the following is NOT a key event that occurs during Odysseus's voyage home in the Odyssey?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the Telemachy?
What is the Telemachy?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following is NOT a weakness that contributes to Odysseus's struggles?
Which of the following is NOT a weakness that contributes to Odysseus's struggles?
Signup and view all the answers
Which character archetype could BEST be used for the character of Athena?
Which character archetype could BEST be used for the character of Athena?
Signup and view all the answers
What kind of narrator is Odysseus in The Odyssey?
What kind of narrator is Odysseus in The Odyssey?
Signup and view all the answers
Flashcards
Mythology
Mythology
The study of ancient myths, focusing on Greek gods, heroes, and their teachings.
Myth
Myth
A traditional story explaining natural or social phenomena, often involving gods or heroes.
Functions of Myths
Functions of Myths
Two main roles: to answer deep questions and justify social customs and traditions.
Reading Myths
Reading Myths
Signup and view all the flashcards
Importance of Myths
Importance of Myths
Signup and view all the flashcards
Hero in Epic
Hero in Epic
Signup and view all the flashcards
Superhuman Deeds
Superhuman Deeds
Signup and view all the flashcards
Vast Settings
Vast Settings
Signup and view all the flashcards
Supernatural Forces
Supernatural Forces
Signup and view all the flashcards
Archetypes
Archetypes
Signup and view all the flashcards
Homer
Homer
Signup and view all the flashcards
The Iliad
The Iliad
Signup and view all the flashcards
The Odyssey
The Odyssey
Signup and view all the flashcards
Epic
Epic
Signup and view all the flashcards
Oral Tradition
Oral Tradition
Signup and view all the flashcards
In Medias Res
In Medias Res
Signup and view all the flashcards
Elements of Epic
Elements of Epic
Signup and view all the flashcards
Epic hero
Epic hero
Signup and view all the flashcards
Mentor
Mentor
Signup and view all the flashcards
The Shadow
The Shadow
Signup and view all the flashcards
Quest
Quest
Signup and view all the flashcards
Nostos
Nostos
Signup and view all the flashcards
Xenia
Xenia
Signup and view all the flashcards
Hubris
Hubris
Signup and view all the flashcards
Double Standard of Women
Double Standard of Women
Signup and view all the flashcards
Cycle of Violence
Cycle of Violence
Signup and view all the flashcards
Fate
Fate
Signup and view all the flashcards
Homeric Epithet
Homeric Epithet
Signup and view all the flashcards
Epic Similes
Epic Similes
Signup and view all the flashcards
The Absent Parent
The Absent Parent
Signup and view all the flashcards
The Monster/Dragon
The Monster/Dragon
Signup and view all the flashcards
The Companion
The Companion
Signup and view all the flashcards
The Temptress/Temper
The Temptress/Temper
Signup and view all the flashcards
The Damsel in Distress
The Damsel in Distress
Signup and view all the flashcards
The Trickster
The Trickster
Signup and view all the flashcards
The 12 Olympians
The 12 Olympians
Signup and view all the flashcards
Humanlike Characteristics of Gods
Humanlike Characteristics of Gods
Signup and view all the flashcards
Telemachy
Telemachy
Signup and view all the flashcards
Odysseus' weakness
Odysseus' weakness
Signup and view all the flashcards
Epithet
Epithet
Signup and view all the flashcards
Epic Metaphor/Simile
Epic Metaphor/Simile
Signup and view all the flashcards
Odysseus' leadership
Odysseus' leadership
Signup and view all the flashcards
Study Notes
Introduction to Mythology
- Mythology is the study of myths and teachings from ancient Greece, relating to their gods, heroes, and world origins.
- Myths are stories passed down through generations within a community, explaining unexplained events and natural phenomena.
- Myths belong to the folklore genre and were passed down through word of mouth.
Role of Myths
- Myths have a dual purpose: explaining human origins and justifying social customs, traditions, and rituals.
- Robert Graves (1955) noted that myths answer children's questions and justify existing societal structures.
Reading Mythology
- Myths should not be taken literally, but examined for deeper symbolic meanings.
- Consider the original audience's perspective when reading a myth, alongside its modern relevance.
- Look for themes rather than just plots and characters. Multiple interpretations are possible.
Why Myths Still Matter
- Some myths are rooted in real historical events, while others are entirely fictional.
- Myths explain ancient life experiences, fears, and events.
- Many religions are based on mythical stories.
- Myths offer insights into the world views and values of ancient civilizations.
Greek Homeric Epics
- The Iliad and The Odyssey are epic poems from the 700s BCE.
- They were originally part of an oral tradition, later written down by Homer.
- These epics narrate the adventures of heroes, highlighting significant events like the Trojan War.
- Homer's identity remains debated among historians.
The Iliad
- The Iliad recounts the conflict between the kingdoms of Troy and Greece, originating from the abduction of Helen.
- The 10-year war was waged to restore honor and reclaim Helen.
- The Iliad primarily focuses on the battles and heroes of the Trojan War.
The Odyssey
- The Odyssey follows Odysseus's journey home after the Trojan War, exploring his encounters with monsters and challenges on his return voyage.
- Odysseus's story shows his courage, strength, and cunning.
- This epic focuses on Odysseus's experiences during his long journey home.
What is an Epic?
- An epic is a long narrative poem detailing the deeds of a larger-than-life hero.
- Epic poems often present heroism, bravery, or other qualities.
- They can also include elements of stories involving great tragedy, horror, triumph or a combination.
- Epics commonly span many settings, sometimes encompassing multiple nations.
- The style is dignified and solemn, aiming to instill moral values in the reader.
- Epics typically open with the invocation of a muse and use flashbacks.
6 Elements of the Epic
- The hero is of a significant, unbelievable stature, often partly divine or protected by a god. Their actions often complete what others attempt.
- The story includes deeds of great valor and strength by the hero.
- The action spans vast geographical locations, even spanning space and time, across land, sea, and into the underworld.
- The story features supernatural forces, like gods, demons, angels, and even cheating death as elements.
- The writing style is elevated, formal, and meticulously detailed.
- The narrator is objective and omniscient (all-knowing), providing all perspectives.
Archetypes and Culture
- Every myth has unique components related to specific cultures and time periods.
- When studying myths, the goal is to find the elements that connect humans across cultures.
Archetypes
- Archetypes are universal symbolic patterns of behavior recognized by Carl Jung.
- They represent typical behaviors based on recurring patterns in literature and mythology.
Character Archetypes
- Epic Hero: A mortal figure whose actions require incredible powers and risk everything, often connected to a national, historical or international event.
- The Mentor: A guide and teacher who provides valuable information or tools to the hero, frequently dying or leaving the hero to complete a part of the journey independently.
- The Shadow: Opposite of the hero, a reflection of the hero's darker side, often the antagonist.
- The Monster or Dragon: The antagonist the hero often faces, representing evil or hardship.
- The Companion: Often an animal or magical creature that assists the hero.
- The Temptress: A woman who tries to distract the hero from their journey through temptation.
- The Trickster: A character who breaks rules and defies expectations, usually being a boundary-breaker.
12 Olympians
- The 12 Olympians are prominent Greek gods and goddesses.
- They inhabited Mount Olympus and often interacted with mortals.
- They possessed human-like characteristics and emotions. The gods exerted influence in the lives of mortals.
Key Concepts in The Odyssey
- Nostos (Homecoming): A central theme focused on Odysseus's 10-year journey home after the Trojan War, despite not necessarily being a remarkable warrior.
- Xenia (Hospitality): A crucial Greek value, showing how important politeness and generosity were. Its proper display was important, and breaches could have serious consequences. The Greeks valued hospitality, and proper displays were important, with breaches having serious consequences.
- Hubris (Excessive Pride): Excessive pride causing problems for the hero, that could be punished by the gods.
- Double Standard of Women: The treatment of women, contrasting with the treatment of men, in ancient Greek society. There were different standards and expectations for men and women.
Cycle of Violence
- The cycle of violence describes a recurring pattern of violent behaviors. Ancient ideas about cause and effect may include the idea that "blood begets blood" referencing cycles of conflict.
- Discussing when cycles end and applying this concept to modern society.
Fate
- Fate is the development of events beyond a person's control as an inevitable outcome, including timelines and when a god's will intersects with people's actions.
- Discussing how much control individuals have, and the concept's relation to actions and consequences.
Homeric Epithet
- A repeated term that describes the nature of gods, mortals, or objects.
- For example, "grey-eyed goddess Athena". A simple device that can create vivid images.
Epic Similes and Metaphors
- Extended comparisons. Used in epic poetry to enhance imagery and add depth, as in the example of the man fishing on a rock.
The Hero's Journey
- A classic monomyth that follows a hero's journey through many stages. The presentation includes visual representation of the hero's journey.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Related Documents
Description
Test your knowledge on the meanings and functions of myths according to Robert Graves and explore the characteristics of epic heroes. This quiz covers key elements distinguishing epic literature from other genres, as well as the relevance of myths in today's world. Challenge yourself with questions on archetypes and the hero's journey!