Mythology Classification Quiz

Classification of Myths

• Anthropogenic myths deal with the origin of humans and their function.

Types of Myths

• Cosmogonic myths and Theogonic myths talk about the origin of the universe and creation.
• Cosmogonic myths explain the origin of the universe, world, or humanity.
• Creation myths explain the origins of the cosmos and humanity.
• Savior myths deal with an individual character who saves the world.
• Theogonic myths describe the origins of the gods.
• Eschatological myths deal with the end of the world.

Standards for Classification

• Myths are typically classified according to their geographical origin, cultural significance, and themes and motifs.
• All of the above standards are used for classification.

Common Themes in Mythology

• Common themes in mythology include creation, heroic deeds, love and betrayal, and scientific explanations.
• Scientific explanations are not a common theme in mythology.

Categorization of Myths

• Ancient Greek mythological stories are categorized according to their literary form.
• Myths can be categorized according to their place of origin, which facilitates comprehension of evolutionary trends of storytelling, cultural exchange and diffusion, linguistic development, and environmental adaptations.

Theogonic Myths

• Theogonic myths describe how the polytheistic gods originated.

Primitive State Myths

• Myths of the primitive state describe the original state of the cosmos and humanity.

Mythological Archetypes

• The Trickster, The Mentor, and The Scapegoat are mythological archetypes.
• The Detective is not a mythological archetype.

Distribution of Myths

• Eschatological myths have a much less extensive distribution.

Classification of Myths

• The classification of myths can be attempted only in broad lines.
• Understanding is aided by the classification of myths according to their cultural significance, universal human experiences and emotions, and historical context.