Anyone who has ever picked up a book on Greek myths or seen a movie inspired by one can attest to its action-packed nature. The orator of Rome himself once said, “History, Still, many fiction writers will tell you, man is rarely a reasonable creature. Teaching Virtue Through Greek Myths One of the hidden benefits of studying Greek myths is to explore virtues. Furthermore, Greek mythology helps us get to know ourselves, and it can aid us in the process of seeing how capable was as humans are. In “The Greek Gods” from The Romans, items that we use in our life sometimes, are inspired by Greek mythology. Why Mythology Is Still Important Today. to get two free reads: By creating an account you agree to Elephant's Terms and Privacy Policy. If you take modern day items that we use and compare it to Greek mythology, believe it or not there is a big connection. Greek heroes are not always what modern readers might think of as "good role models." If there is one subject that is still widely taught today, it has to be the subject of ancient Greek mythology. However, despite their great powers, gods and goddesses were much like humans, and sometimes they had to come down to hearth to intervene in the affairs of mortals, involving men and women, enemies, and sometimes lovers. We're community-driven. Greek mythology, implicitly, introduced the ideas of life lessons, and they can also gives us humans in general basis to our common beliefs. Some examples of this are in: movies and film, sayings, and marketing ideas. Unsurprisingly, some common expressions in English derive from these ancient myths and beliefs. Sports brands, movies and T.V shows, the most complicated technology, books and many more, are all examples of Greek Mythology. Their actions may strike us as morally dubious. It takes 7 seconds to join. We learned about our mythology through tragedies, choruses, art, and music. To begin, Greek mythology has been used in plenty of movies and film, while also being subtly referenced in many others. History is not as simple as finding a text and expecting its contents to be truthful and accurate. It is not uncommon for parents to be wary of teaching their children about ancient mythologies. Greek mythology, as in other ancient cultures, was used as a means to explain the environment in which humankind lived, the natural phenomena they witnessed and the passing of time through the days, months, and seasons.Myths were also intricately connected to religion in the Greek world and explained the origin and lives of the gods, where humanity had come from and where it was … The term ‘Greek Mythology’ conjures up images of impossibly beautiful gods and goddesses, fire and brimstone, roaring beasts and larger-than-life heroes. For one thing, it makes up a major part of anybody’s heritage. Many readers will ask why these stories are relevant today. And clearly you appreciate mindfulness with a sense of humor and integrity! However, it’s “not just a myth” that mythology plays a vibrant, functional, and crucial role in our modern society. Every culture has their own legends, folktales, and myths – whether it may be Celtic by way of Scotland, Ireland, or Wales for example, or Germanic by … Throughout all history, humans have been trying to make sense of the natural world around them. Greek mythology, oral and literary traditions of the ancient Greeks concerning their gods and heroes and the nature of the cosmos. He is weak one moment and strong the next. July 2, 2010, kelsey, 1 Comment. By creating an account you agree to Elephant's Terms and Privacy Policy. When witnessing natural disasters or other strange things occur, people naturally look for explanations, before modern science, that sometimes meant they had to create an explanation themselves, Ancient Greece and the rest of the world is unknown to most people. Critical Thinking: From My Experience. People still study the ancient Greeks and their myths much in the same reason they study other cultures and that is so they can learn from it. We focus on anything that's good for you, good for others, and good for our planet. For those who think that ancient Greek mythology stories are nothing more than a bunch of outdated tales, they just happen to be wrong. It is amazing to think that the Greek civilians of this time were so accepting of these stories, and it is even more amazing that we still reference these myths today. Why is Greek mythology important for students studying English? The Greeks relied upon water for survival because it was crucial for food, shipping and trade, among other things. Because of your many requests, I have provided a couple of thousand excellent examples to help you get started in your research. May this site’s daily new articles inspire & expand your mind& heart in the midst of this busy-busy world of ours. When Camelot is referred to, it denotes a golden age of prosperity. Myths sprung up before art, language, and even religion making them such a cornerstone in the human experience. Literature Review- The Greek mythology is important today as it has been adopted into the modern cultures. This post is Grassroots, meaning a reader posted it directly. Learn more. Copyright © 2020 Waylon H. Lewis Enterprises. Science and medicine have also borrowed significantly from it. Core Spirit is a social platform aggregating diverse mediums of content, experts and practitioners, online and offline events and complimentary products & services address… Read full bio. There are hundreds of movies created about the adventures of Greek … Daily you run across instances of words, city names, companies, literary allusions - and the Zodiac, planets and constellations - that take their name or borrow their theme from Greek myths. These myths aren’t just legends and while they are “just stories” they are stories with a purpose and reason. Many of these were created for the sole purpose to please the gods, so it related a lot to Greek mythology. One wouldn’t expect such great minds to waste their time telling a story for the sake of telling a story; they had to have purpose and they had to impart knowledge. First of all, temples, theatres, stadiums and pillars all originated from Greek times. Although many may not know it, Greek mythology had a large effect on life in Ancient Greece through names, religious practices and places, festivals, architecture, and wars. By creating an account you agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. large minds like Parmenides, Thucydides, and Democritus began to rationalize and attempt to make the myths a lot less broadly conventional. If you take modern day items that we use and compare it to, Analysis Of Ray Bradbury 's Fahrenheit 451, Harriet Beecher Stowe And Sojourner Truth, The Inequality Trap : Fighting Capitalism Instead Of Poverty. HERE’S THE TRUTH: Greek mythology is vital to a child’s education. One day, Zeus distributed gifts to all the gods, but he didn't care … This essay will explain about why Greek mythology is still relevant today and why we still use it. All rights reserved. Write a summary of the events of the story. Sports brands, movies and T.V shows, the most complicated technology, books and many more, are all examples of Greek Mythology. I already know that mythology was a very important part of Greek life and culture, and is a very important part of Greek history. Welcome to elephant's ecosystem. Therefore, Greek mythology is still very relevant today. Summary #1 To understand the importance of Greek mythology for modern people, it is important to take a look at the allegorical meaning of the tales. These great men, Aristotle and Sophocles to name a few, were not mere story-tellers; they didn’t spend their days weaving tales just because they wanted to and had nothing to do. Sports brands, movies and T.V shows, the most complicated technology, books and many more, are all examples of Greek Mythology. Taking a deeper look into mythology one can be convinced that myths, Greek Mythology vs. Modern Science Why ancient Greek mythology is still relevant today Myths are the traditional stories that concerned more of the early people trying to explain some natural or social phenomenon to younger generations. In the past, Greek gods and goddesses used to live at the top of Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece. Some examples of houses and buildings that were … Why not join the Elephant community, become an Elephriend. But what is a myth? I partially agree with the statement “Literature such as poems, drama, mythology, and other forms that are clearly not non-fictional in nature have no practical use for historians who are interested only in hard, cold fact.” for a number of reasons. Play for free. April 21, 2017 Achilles was a Greek hero and central character in Homer's epic poem, The Iliad. RI.6.1 – Work Time B: Students build knowledge of Greek mythology and its relevance today by closely reading an informational text, “Why Ancient Greek Mythology Is Still Relevant Today,” and using textual evidence to support their analysis of the text. Now that modern technology and science exists, we are able to see how natural phenomena actually happen. The word “myth” has two very different meanings here, one of which we will be using more often in the context of this textbook. Why Ancient Greek Mythology is Still Relevant Today. | "Elephant Journal" & "Walk the Talk Show" are registered trademarks of Waylon H. Lewis, Enterprises. Here’s why we make sure to include it in what we teach here at Gloria Deo Academy. Virtually all cultures have them. Some might wonder what the point is to just passing down stories—stories that were made up and were in no way true but that was the beauty of Greek mythology in ancient times. The narratives influenced the arts of later centuries so that such stories as the abduction of Persephone and those from Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey remained popular in the 21st century. Most of the things that are done have a reference point in Greek mythology. It is a constant reminder of who we are and where we come from. Our deepest fears and our secret desires. A common Health Problem for Most Women and Van De Water If there is one subject that is still widely taught today, it has to be the subject of ancient Greek mythology. It’s true that mythology teaches us a lot about what was the norm in ages long gone, but that’s not the only reason I like mythology. A lot of churches and houses today copy the Greek architectural designs, mostly because they are beautiful and appealing. The essence of this quote written in an article entitled “Women in Greek Myth” by Mary L. Lefkowitz in 2001 is basically that the Greek’s relied and believed greatly in the idea of Greek mythology… The ancients Greeks were polytheistic which means they used to worship many gods. Greek Mythology: Gods and Goddesses Well, if you ask me, I’d say mythology is important far beyond mere cultural viewpoints. So you think Mythology is nothing more that lies, falsehoods, and imaginative stories ? The English language has derived many of its words in this mythology. In truth, these myths give people a chance to glimpse at the way the Greeks lived and how they thought back then. Answer the following questions about the story. Instead of “action in a vacuum”, linear myths (X God did Y, so agriculture was born), Greek mythology creates narratives that reveal psychological truths about human nature. To some people, Greek myths are these epic tales of gods and goddesses gallivanting about the earth, achieving all sorts of impossible tasks. Myths typically involved supernatural occurrences and beings that were hard for the simple human mind to concur. It isn’t just taught as part of a literature curriculum at school but is also part of most history lessons. Mythology is everywhere! Then you can Heart an article, boosting its "Ecosystem" score & helping your favorite author to get paid. but overlook a Crucial Part of the Conversation: The first way that Greek mythology affected daily life in Ancient Greece was through its effect on the names of places in Greece, many of which we still hear today. Also, why is Greek mythology important to us if they were just myths? This is exceptionally true of Greek mythology because the allusions are far reaching and having a base knowledge will provide important context. However, one look at the vast amount of ancient Greek-themed movies and literature today, people will quickly come to the conclusion that the world is still fascinated with Greek mythology though they might not always be able to say why. In ancient cultures around the world, we see this proved with myths and stories. It might seem hopelessly outdated and unimportant but the exact opposite of that is true. Greek mythology, implicitly, introduced the ideas of life lessons, and they can also gives us humans in general basis to our common beliefs. Christopher Hope-Fitch/Moment/Getty Images. Greek mythology has been very influential in Western culture, particularly its art and literature. i believe that mythology all started being criticized sometime between 490 BC and and 420 BC even as the historic Greek society began to progression philosophically and traditionally. Greek Mythology is important today because the consolations are named after Roman and Greek figures like Virgo (the virgin) and Leo (the lion). Mythology is still prominent in aspects of modern culture, especially advertising, because of its universality and vibrant metaphors. We're dedicated to sharing "the mindful life" beyond the core or choir, to all those who don't yet know they give a care. You may well wonder at the continuing popularity of Greek mythology in the twenty-first century. Sign up (or log in) below These myths were an integral part of ancient Greek culture because this was how they passed down lessons from one generation to the next without things getting boring and dull. If you see an issue with it, contact an editor. Join & get 2 free reads. In Greek mythology, Poseidon was the god of the sea and protector of all water. A deeper look at Greek myths should reveal morals, philosophies, and even warnings. They were too good for that and this is why their Greek myths have withstood the test of time and are relevant until today. He can be confused, Why Greek Mythology Is Still Relevant Today And Why We Still Use It, Hook/Opening statement- A lot of popular everyday items that we use in our life sometimes, are inspired by Greek mythology. Major cities in Ancient Greece were often named after the gods so that the cities could receive. It isn’t just taught as part of a literature curriculum at school but is also part of most history lessons. Myths are universal. everyday items that we use in our life sometimes, are inspired by Greek mythology. Why Greek Mythology is Still Relevant. Greek mythology in general, has many impacts on the modern day world, even though it was written over a 10 milleniums ago. The Odyssey is one of the more familiar Greek myth written by Homer in the 12th and 13 century B.C. It was such a while ago, so why do people still reflect, Carine Kessie by Bryan N Griffin Jr. Mythology is important for quite a few reasons. Elephant offers 2 articles/day for free. We talk about “Aging Gracefully,” My question is: Why was Greek mythology so important to them, and how has it affected us today? Hey, thanks so much for reading! Every time you read, share, comment or heart you help an article improve its Rating—which helps Readers see important issues & writers win $$$ from Elephant. ENG 2010-29 Greek mythology in general, has many impacts on the modern day world, even though it was written over a 10 milleniums ago. Well I think it’s important because not only does it allow you to explore the religious stories that composed the theology of the Greco-Roman people it teaches you some good life-lessons in the breakdown of the tales of the heroes like for example : Hector - Don’t be overconfident and take advice when given. If you take modern day items that we use and compare it to Greek mythology, believe it or not there is a big connection. Reading and hearing about Greek mythology is one thing, but why are modern people still made to study them? For many, if not the majority of people, myths are just the old stories with little to no meaning that are mainly untrue. If you’d like to post a Grassroots post, click here! Heroes were an important part of Greek mythology, but the characteristics Greeks admired in a hero are not necessarily identical to those we admire today. They were often used to teach people about events that they could not always understand, such as illness and death, or earthquakes and floods. Rose suggests that Greek myths were allegories which concealed deep meaning and talked about the wisdom of the rules, the courage of ordinary people, and the eternal quest of humans to become equal to gods. There are thousands of books written about the importance of Greek mythology in the formation of modern-time societies. To have an 'Achilles heel' means to have a weakness or vulnerable point. Zeus was the King of the Gods in classical Greek mythology, and was viewed as the king who oversaw the entire universe. Prometheus and the Theft of Fire. But how come people today are inspired by Greek mythology? Investigations must be done to ensure texts and statements that claim to be true – are in fact the truth. Learn about the ancient Greek myths, Greek gods and godesses, and important Greek heroes. The importance of Greek mythology Today, the ancient Greek myths still fascinate readers throughout the world. presentation by: Aubrey Culver Greek Mythology and Nature Echo and Narcissus Greek Myths Purpose How Greek Mythology was displayed. He is consumed by irrational passions and uncontrollable urges, as well as by reason and logic. Though it is important to guard our hearts and minds, learning about ancient civilizations is also important. On the surface, they may seem like impossible flights of fancy written by ancient philosophers. Greek mythology was displayed on art, such as vase-paintings and votive gifts. It has influenced many areas of human life over the centuries and still continues to do so even now. If you want more, grab a subscription for unlimited reads for $3/month. Most people will say that the word “myth” Your investment will help Elephant Journal invest in our editors and writers who promote your values to create the change you want to see in your world! The Greeks played a big part in how buildings were made or look today. Some people might wonder why the world is still so hung up on ancient Greek myths when they are nothing but stories and they came from thousands of years ago. comparing Greek mythology to Christianity, Judaism, Islam, … Apr 26, 2017. She is known to be the daughter of Zeus alone, without a … Indeed, a person who doesn’t look beyond the surface will think these tales are nothing more than flights of fancy by old story-tellers from the past but a deeper look at the stories will tell you more than that. Why Is Zeus Important? Why Is Zeus Important? He was the brother of Poseidon and Hades, lords of … We're protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. a Simple Solution >>. The answer to that is very simple: to learn. Greek myths attempt to explain the origins of the world and details They became the perfect way to impart lessons without being dull or boring. The meaning of her name is a mystery, and the story of her birth is fascinating. Most people will not really notice it unless they are told to do so, but there are so many Greek influences around the world today. For sure, these stories may have been written hundreds if not thousands of years ago, but it is good to remember they were written by wise men who had a hand in helping shape modern thinking. In fact, it is impossible to go around to completely understand the basics of things like fine arts, literature, and performing arts without touching on some Greek myth. These tales rarely have the happily-ever-after endings people are so used to these days but remember, they weren’t written for entertainment—they were written with a higher purpose. For instance, the Trojan horse is still a metaphor for gifts that are not really gifts. Why is Athena important. Greek mythology has profoundly influenced Western culture. wants and needs can be quite difficult unless you enter with an open mind. “The Greeks ' most important legacy is not, as we would like to think, democracy; it is mythology” (Lefkowitz, 2001, p. 207). With these classic stories, the lines between righteous and immoral behavior are clear cut, so that even young children can recognize examples of the 4 cardinal virtues: prudence, justice, fortitude and … In fact, they might even still be relevant a hundred years from now. Greek Mythology and Gods Myths are stories created to teach people about something important and meaningful. Greek Mythology Identifies Good vs. Proved with myths and beliefs you ask me, I ’ d like to post Grassroots... One moment and strong the next this is why their Greek myths, Greek gods and godesses, and stories! Still fascinate readers throughout the world universality and vibrant metaphors reminder of who we able. 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