10 Questions
What is the primary role of myths in a society?
To provide foundational tales and origin myths
What is the etymology of the word 'myth'?
It comes from Ancient Greek μῦθος (mȳthos), meaning 'speech, narrative, fiction, myth, plot'
How are myths different from the colloquial use of the word 'myth'?
The truth value of a myth is not a defining criterion
How are myths often endorsed in societies?
By secular and religious authorities
Who is traditionally ascribed as the author of the Ramayana?
Maharishi Valmiki
What does the word 'mythología' mean in Ancient Greek?
'Story', 'lore', 'legends', or 'the telling of stories'
In which kingdom did Rama, the central character, belong to?
Kosala
What event led to Rama's fourteen-year exile to the forest?
The request of Rama's stepmother Kaikeyi
Who kidnapped Sita, Rama's wife, in the Ramayana?
Ravana, the king of Lanka
What is the estimated range for the earliest stage of the Ramayana text?
7th to 4th centuries BCE
Study Notes
The Role and Meaning of Myths
- Myths play a primary role in a society by conveying moral values, explaining natural phenomena, and preserving cultural heritage.
Etymology of Myth
- The word 'myth' originates from the Greek word 'mythos', meaning story or legend.
Difference between Myths and Colloquial Use
- Myths are traditional stories that often explain natural phenomena, while the colloquial use of 'myth' refers to a false or unproven belief or story.
Endorsement of Myths
- Myths are often endorsed in societies through oral tradition, cultural rituals, and written records.
The Ramayana
Authorship
- The Ramayana is traditionally ascribed to the authorship of Valmiki.
Etymology of Mythología
- The word 'mythología' in Ancient Greek means the study of myths or myth-telling.
The Kingdom of Rama
- Rama, the central character, belonged to the kingdom of Ayodhya.
Event Leading to Exile
- Rama's fourteen-year exile to the forest was a result of King Dasaratha's promise to Kaikeyi, one of his wives.
Abduction of Sita
- Sita, Rama's wife, was kidnapped by Ravana, the king of Lanka.
Earliest Stage of the Ramayana Text
- The estimated range for the earliest stage of the Ramayana text is around 500 BCE to 100 BCE.
Test your knowledge of myths, folklore, and origin stories from different cultures around the world. Explore the significance of myths in society, their relationship to religion and spirituality, and their role in shaping communal beliefs.
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