myths, legends, and fairy tales. myths what is a myth? from the greek word mythos meaning "word...
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What is a Myth?What is a Myth?
from the Greek word mythos meaning "word of mouth”
widely thought to be fictional
concern the origins of the world or how the world and the creatures in it came to be in their present form
Thor, the god of Norse mythology. "Tors strid med jättarna" (1872), painting by Marten Eskil Winge.
What is a Myth?What is a Myth?
generally are about gods and heroes
are often said to take place before recorded history begins
In early times, myths were considered sacred or religiously true.
Medusa by Caravaggio, rotella (tournament shield). Oil on canvas mounted on wood, dated from 1592 to 1600.
Famous MythsFamous Myths
The Twelve Labors of Hercules
Theseus escaping the labyrinth and killing the Minotaur
Creation Myths from many cultures/religions around the world
The snake-headed Medusa
What is a Legend?What is a Legend?
from the Latin word legenda meaning "things to be read”
legends are believable, although not necessarily believed
are exaggerated stories of real people or events from history
“Atlantis” illustration by Lloyd K. Townsend.
What is a Legend?What is a Legend?
legends are about someone who probably did exist but have been twisted to seem more interesting and fascinating
are fabulous stories that have some historical basis
The main characters in legends are often respected and remembered by people, despite passing away several centuries ago
“King Arthur” by Peter Vischer in Hofkirche (Innsbruck)
Famous LegendsFamous Legends
King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table
Robin Hood robbing from the rich to give to the poor
The legend of the lost city of Atlantis
The quest for the Holy Grail
What is a Fairy Tale?What is a Fairy Tale?
a fictional story that may feature characters such as fairies, goblins, elves, trolls, witches, giants, or talking animals
often involves a far-fetched sequence of events
“Little Red Riding Hood” illustration by Gustave Dore
What is a Fairy Tale?What is a Fairy Tale?
they are usually not connected to religion or actual places, persons, or events
they take place "once upon a time" rather than in actual times
older fairy tales were intended for adults as well as children
Ivan Bilibin’s illustration of the Russian fairy tale about “Vasilissa the Beautiful”.