Mythology

What is Mythology?

• Collection of Greek & Roman Myths (some Norse)
• Focus on Gods & Goddesses created by Greeks but adopted by Romans (gave them different names)

Mythology

• Hamilton introduces & describes the deities and their relationships
• She includes ancient myths about creation & ancient, heroic families
• First section of text discusses origin of Greek mythology & first recorded myths

Myths

• Important in Greek & Roman life
• Explained natural world
• Inspired ethical/philisophical debate
• Justified political systems

Myths

• Source of Entertainment:
• Stories of heroism, beauty, love, death, betrayal, revenge, victory, defeat, etc.
• Develop Universal Themes
• Hero's challenges within
• Lack of clarity b/w good and evil
• Complex view of women
• Male domination

Edith Hamilton

• Published Mythology when she was 62 years old
• Authored 9 more books on Greek & Roman culture and mythology
• Revered Greek values and lamented complicated American culture
• Made an honorary citizen of Athens
• Awarded Golden Cross of the Order of Benefaction

Greek Mythology Influence

• Informed cultural evolution of Western civilization
• Western art, literature, & philosophy
• Artists: Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael
• Authors: Chaucer, Milton, Shakespeare
• Familiarity with Greek, Roman and Norse Mythology will offer insight into ancient societies & human behavior