Introduction to
Mythology
Western Literature
November 2, 2015
What is mythology?
O Myth: (noun) A traditional story, especially one
concerning the early history of a people or
explaining some natural or social phenomenon,
and typically involving supernatural beings or
events.
O Denotation: A type of story that explains a
phenomenon.
O Connotation: Myths are usually false. THIS IS
NOT THE DEFINITION THAT WE ARE USING TO
DISCUSS MYTHOLOGY.
Mythology Journal
(this response should be with your MUGS and other journals)
In your journal, answer the following
questions in complete sentences:
1. What does “mythology” mean to you?
2. What is your favorite myth? Why?
3. What different Creation stories do you
know of? Explain the origin of each myth
(as defined on the earlier slide).
Small Group Challenge: Write down a list of
all of the mythological allusions you can
think of in our society. The winning group
earns an extra day pass upon my return.
What is the influence of
mythology today?
Make a list of the mythological allusions
that we see in our current society.
(i.e. company logos, expressions,
slogans, etc.)
The Influence of Mythology
O The Greek and Roman myths that you
will study in this course have influenced
much of literature, film, pop culture, and
society.
O You may notice that many companies
market themselves with allusions to
various Greek/Roman myths.
O Let’s explore these connections to
appreciate the influence of mythology.
Tennessee
Titans
Nike: The
Goddess of
Victory
Amazon
Pandora
Saturn
(Roman Name of
Cronos)
Trident
Midas
Venus
(Roman Name for
Aphrodite)
“A choice
for every
goddess!”
Aphrodite
(Greek Name for
Venus)
Aphrodite’s
Symbol is a
Dove
Ajax
“Stronger
than dirt!”
Eos
Greek
Goddess of
Dawn
Versace (featuring Medusa)
Starbucks (featuring a Siren)
Check Out Mythology Books
O Pick up a mythology book
located on the bookshelf.
You will be checking
these out in the library at
another time. Today, you
are writing your name,
and the last five digits of
the SVA ISBN barcode on
a sign-out sheet.
Introduction to Mythology
You are to read pages 3-13 of
Edith Hamilton’s Mythology in
your small groups.
O If you do not finish, it is
homework.
O
O Hint: There may be a pop quiz over
the information in this chapter.