Foundations of Mythology
This week was an introduction to mythology and how it is viewed academically and in popular culture.
The activities this week have focused on myths in different cultures around the world. In this assignment you will share what you learned.
Write a 525- to 700-word paper in which you answer the following questions:
• How is the word myth used in popular culture?
o For example, what does the statement, "It's a myth" mean? In contrast, how is the word myth used in the academic context?
o After considering the definition in your readings and course materials, write a definition in your own words.
• What are the most common mythological themes across different cultures?
• Why do myths from different cultures around the world address such similar or universal themes? Do we see these same themes in today's myths?
o Think about how myths explain the unknown and the tribulations of humankind.
Include citations and references throughout your paper.
ANY OF THESE SOURCES(minimum of 3 or 4)
Foundations of Mythology
• Boucquey, T. (2005). Celtic mythology. Encyclopedia of World Writers, Beginnings through the 13th Century, n/a.
• Boucquey, T. (2005). Greek and Roman mythology. Encyclopedia of World Writers, Beginnings through the 13th Century, n/a.
• Boucquey, T. (2005). Mesoamerican mythology. Encyclopedia of World Writers, 14th through 18th Centuries, n/a.
• Boucquey, T. (2005). Norse mythology. Encyclopedia of World Writers, Beginnings through the 13th Century, n/a.
• Manhart, K. (2005). Likely story. Scientific American Mind, 16(4), 58-63.
• Mythology. (2012). Africa: An Encyclopedia for Students, 116-119.
• Tofighian, O. (2010). Beyond the myth/philosophy dichotomy: Foundations for an interdependent perspective. Forum Philosophicum, 15(1), 175-189.
Videos
• James McBride (1999). Origins of Greek Mythology (03:27) [Video File]. Films on Demand.
• PBS (2005). Myth or True Stories? (02:21) [Video File], Films on Demand.
• TVA Films (1999). A New Mythology: Greek Philosophy and Monotheism (04:37) [Video File], Films on Demand.
• TVA Films (1999). Definition of Mythology (03:03) [Video File], Films on Demand.
• TVA Films (1999). Mythology Today: The Individual and Eternal Youth (02:48) [Video File], Films on Demand.
• TVA Films (1999). Need for Myths in Modern Times (03:25) [Video File], Films on Demand.
• TVA Films (1999). The Myth Explodes (03:39) [Video File], Films on Demand.