What is a Myth?
What is the function of a myth?
Explain natural events or justify religious beliefs or social customs
How did ancient people learn about myths?
Oral renderings, usually sung by a bard
What is the concept of a legend?
Narrative passed down through generations without substantiated evidence, often rooted in specific individuals, places, or historical events
Discuss the meaning of the word "nostos"
The return of an epic hero to his home--such as Odysseus
What is the role of the speaker in the video?
The speaker in the video is the Sibyl of Cumes, a prophetess and reader of leaves.
Tell a story involving the Sirens
The bird-women who lured men from their ships and devoured them. Odysseus was tied to the mast so he could hear the siren song.
Which planes of existence and their interaction do myths highlight?
heaven, hell, the future, the past
What are the characteristics of a folktale?
Fictional narratives not based on specific individuals, places, or events, often employ symbolism, lack the essential characteristics of myths
How did myths define who to pray to in times of need?
By including gods, goddesses, or supernatural beings with specific powers in the plot
Which section in the Underworld is considered the VIP area?
The VIP section of the Underworld is called the Elysium
Give an example of a creation myth from the Crash Course Creation video.
Chaos, the Kono people of Guinea--mud; the Quiche people in Guatemala--a dark night, feathered serpent, sea; Genesis--Adam and Eve; Big Bang
What does a myth explain?
Unknown such as creation of the universe, Earth, and meaning/purpose of existence
Define a fable and its purpose.
Fictitious story incorporating supernatural elements, intended to impart practical lessons or morals
What is the significance of the myth of Perséphone?
The myth of Perséphone explains the seasons, linking the cycle of planting and harvesting with the actions of the gods
Tell the story of Tantalus and his eternal punishment.
Tantalus' eternal punishment is hunger and thirst, as the branches and water retreat whenever he reaches for them.
How do myths break the laws of nature?
People change into objects and the dead rise and live again
According to the video, what are two difficulties that come with studying mythology?
The difficulties with studying mythology include the ancient and multiple versions of myths, as well as the open interpretation of myths.
How does a legend differ from a myth?
Legend is a story handed down for generations and believed to have a historical basis, not verifiable, while not all legends are myths. Legends are designed to teach a lesson about a real person in history, with a few facts dramatically changed.
What are cosmogonies in the Crash Course video, and why are they important in mythology?
Cosmogonies are stories about the creation of the world, and they are important in mythology because they explain how the world works or how it came to be.
List the five rivers in the Underworld and their unique characteristics.
The five rivers in the Underworld are Achéron (river of sorrow), Cocyte (river of lamentation), Léthé (river of forgetfulness), Phlégéthon (river of fire), and Styx (source of invincibility).
How is a myth a religious story?
Gods, goddesses, supernatural beings worshiped (higher power involved in plot), and myth considered sacred within culture
Why does the Crash Course video mention that mythologies are difficult to study?
Mythologies are difficult to study because they are very ancient and exist in multiple versions.
Give an example of a fable and explain its purpose.
A fable is a story that teaches a moral lesson, often with animals as main characters, such as "The Tortoise and the Hare" teaching the lesson of slow and steady wins the race
Why do some stories, like the "rags to riches" narrative in the Crash Course video, qualify as myths?
Stories like the "rags to riches" narrative can qualify as myths because of their durability and the belief in their truthfulness by those who consider them meaningful.
Tell a story about Odysseus, the warrior who went to the underworld and came back.
The sirens, killing suitors, away for 20 years, fought in the Trojan War