Myths
What is a myth?
A myth is a story that usually explains something about the world and involves gods and other superhuman beings.
Define folklore.
Folklore consists of a people group (or “folk”) and all of its accumulated facts (“lore”) including: traditional customs, beliefs, knowledge, values, and attitudes of the ordinary people.
What is an archetype?
An original model which other things are similarly patterned after. An image, story pattern, character type, representation, or recurring idea.
What is a motif?
Words, characters, objects, images, or ideas that recur in a literary work or works. A motif is almost always related to the theme or mood of a work of literature.
What is a character archetype?
A person or being that serves as a representative of a greater ideal.
Name one characteristic commonly found in myths.
Explains the creation of the world and universe; meaning behind religious rituals, customs, and beliefs
Gives an explanation to the human condition: how and why people were created, why they are flawed, why there is suffering in the world, why people must eventually die, what happens to people after death.
Paints a picture of the nature of gods and goddesses and how these deities and humans beings interact
Explains natural phenomena and historical events
Teaches moral lessons
What is the difference between folklore and myths?
Folklore describes many forms of cultural representation, while myths mostly focuses on existential concepts and origin stories, often intertwined with religious beliefs, making some myths revered as sacred.
What is the significance of the "mentor" archetype in stories?
Serve as a teacher or counselor to the initiate or future hero
Role Model
Sometimes a Father or Mother figure
What is a recurring motif in many stories?
Answers may vary.
A recurring motif in many stories is the "hero's journey," where a protagonist embarks on an adventure, faces and overcomes significant challenges, and returns transformed. This motif highlights themes of growth, self-discovery, and the triumph of good over adversity, resonating across diverse cultures and storytelling traditions.
Known for their bravery and determination, this character archetype typically faces and overcomes great challenges.
The Hero
Give two examples of a myth?
Medusa’s Head, Prometheus Bringer of Fire, Iliad & Odyssey
Name a famous folktale and its culture.
Answers may vary
What is the significance of the "Star-Crossed Lovers" archetype in stories?
These are two characters are engaged in a love affair. Fated to end tragically. Society, family, or friends do not approve of the relationship
How do motifs enhance the storytelling experience?
Motifs enhance the storytelling experience by adding depth and cohesion, reinforcing themes, and creating emotional resonance. Repeated elements, such as symbols or patterns, help audiences connect with the story on a deeper level, recognize underlying messages, and anticipate narrative developments, making the overall experience more engaging and memorable.
This archetype often opposes the hero and creates obstacles for them, representing evil or conflict.
Devil Figure or Villain
What is Prometheus best know for?
Prometheus is best known for defying the Olympian gods by taking fire from them and giving it to humanity in the form of technology, knowledge and, more generally, civilization.
How do folktales often reflect the values of a culture?
By conveying moral lessons and cultural heritage, they serve as a means of morally educating children and encouraging favorable behavior in a region.
How can archetypes help us understand different cultures?
Archetypes, as universal symbols and themes found across various myths and stories, help us understand different cultures by revealing common human experiences and values. They provide insight into the shared psychological patterns and societal norms that shape cultural narratives. By studying archetypes, we can identify both the unique expressions and the universal aspects of different cultures, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of diverse human perspectives.
Explain how the motif of "good vs. evil" is illustrated in literature and media.
The motif of "good vs. evil" is illustrated in literature and media through the conflict between virtuous characters or forces and malevolent ones. This classic dichotomy drives the plot, highlighting moral choices and the struggle for justice. Examples include the battle between Harry Potter and Voldemort in the "Harry Potter" series, or the conflict between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader in "Star Wars," showcasing the timeless appeal of this universal theme.
Often a symbol of purity and virtue, this archetype frequently is saved and plays the role of the hero’s love interest.
The Damsel in Distress
__________ is the branch of knowledge that deals with myth and the study of myths.
Mythology
Discuss the role of oral tradition in preserving folklore.
Oral tradition is crucial in preserving folklore, transmitting cultural heritage, beliefs, and knowledge through generations. It adapts stories to changing times, ensuring relevance while fostering community bonds and shared identity. This dynamic form of storytelling also preserves languages and resists cultural erosion, making it essential for maintaining and celebrating cultural diversity. Despite modern challenges, documenting and promoting oral traditions helps sustain their vitality.
What are some ways you can analyze and evaluate archetypes in literature and media?
Using an archetypal critical lens evaluates:
Recurring images that share common interpretations across cultures
Characters that recur across cultures
Motifs that recur across cultures
Discuss the impact of using motifs in modern literature and media.
Using motifs in modern literature and media enriches narratives by providing recurring symbols and themes that add layers of meaning. They help create a cohesive story world, deepen character development, and engage audiences by evoking familiar emotions and concepts. Motifs also facilitate connections between different works and genres, enhancing the overall impact and resonance of the storytelling.
This archetype represents the forces of nature or fate that guide and challenge the hero, often appearing as gods, spirits, nurturer, all knowing, or mystical beings.
The Earthmother/father