Classics 2200 Midterm 1 Review Myth Myth:a spoken word, an utterance, a thing that is said. From the Ancient Greekmuthos A traditional shared narrative Originally orally transmitted because writing was used (rarely) for practical purposes, original authors are unknown or anonymous Myths are flexible and change as they are transmitted over space and time. Expresses basic conceptual structures of society. oExpress, reinforce, justify and also challenge cultural values, practices, desires and fears. oMyths are also a way for a culture to make sense of the unknown, the inexplicable, and the mysterious. Divine Myth: Tends to explain or reflect experience of the natural universe and phenomena. Alsoreflects ancient Greek social structure. e.g. patriarchy, aristocracy Major characters are anthropomorphic (human-shaped) gods. They are immortaland ageless (but not eternal). oGods can cease to be, either in general or as a god oNote: Most male gods are born as babies and grow up, female goddesses tend to be born as fully grown woman Legend:Tends to explain or reflect historical phenomena. e.g. Foundations of cities, archaeological ruins, hereditary kingships, wars. Gods are often involved, but major characters are exemplary humans who are superiorin some way to most others. e.g. Achilles, Theseus Folktale:Tends to reflect a fantasy of power structures inverted. e.g. a weakling slaying a monster, a change in status from poverty to wealth, overthrowing a tyrant Major characters are usually ordinary mortals. Trickster figuresare common. oTricksters are often witty, humorous and like fucking with people Often comic or with a happy ending. Fable:Tends to be didactic(teaches a lesson) Often about everyday moral behaviour. Major characters are often animalswith human characteristics. Evidence for Greek and Roman Myths Texts e.g. Papyrus fragments. Most of the papyrus that remains is from Egypt, often found in dry places. Vase Paintings Archaeological Sites Sculpture Painting
