Download Greek Mythology

Greek Mythology
Greek Mythology
What is a myth?
What is mythology?
What is a myth?
A popular belief or
tradition that
influences/shapes the
opinions of society.
What is mythology?
A body of myths; the
study of myths as they
relate to the gods,
demigods, and
legendary heroes of a
society.
Why mythology?
Used to explain natural
phenomena and life events
–Examples:
• Sun moving across the sky
• earthquakes
Greek Mythology
Greeks had little interest
in the afterlife.
Most Greeks wanted to
live their lives so that they
would be remembered
long after their deaths.
Greek Mythology
Intellectuals such as poets
and philosophers were
held in high regard.
Strongly favored
individualism and prized
differences in personality
and character.
Greek Mythology
Myths and religions
reflect individuality as
well.
Greek Mythology
Based on a polytheistic
religion.
Mythology was an
important part of
Greek culture, politics
and art.
Greek Mythology
Also has an impact on the
culture of western
civilization.
For example, many symbols,
metaphors, and words are
based on Greek mythology.
What are some examples?
Greek Gods and Goddesses
Immortal
But, possessed many human qualities
and faults
– Examples:
• Love, hate, jealousy, anger
• Constantly quarreled and completed with each
other
Would often interfere in human events
– Trojan War
– Creation of Athens
Major Greek Gods
and Goddesses
Aphrodite
Goddess of
beauty, love,
fertility
Very vain
because of her
beauty
Major Greek Gods
and Goddesses
Hera
Goddess of
Marriage
Wife of Zeus
Very jealous
due to Zeus
cheating on her
a lot
Major Greek Gods
and Goddesses
Zeus
King of the
Gods
Supreme god
God of the Sky
- Lightening,
Thunder
Major Greek Gods
and Goddesses
Apollo
God of music,
healing,
prophesy
Played the lute
Major Greek Gods
and Goddesses
Athena
Goddess of
wisdom, war,
crafts
Patron goddess
of Athens
Major Greek Gods
and Goddesses
Hades
King of the
Underworld
Major Greek Gods
and Goddesses
Poseidon
God of the sea,
earthquakes,
horses
Many disputes
with Zeus
Major Greek Gods
and Goddesses
Artemis
Goddess of the
hunt
Helps women in
childbirth
Deadly with her
arrows