Theories of Mythology Essay - 755 Words

Theories of Mythology The definition of mythology is derived from the word â€Å"myth†. The word itself is developed from the Greek word â€Å"mythos†, which means sagas, legend, or fable. The word â€Å"myth† is a chronicle that seeks to prove the world around us and is passed down from generation to generation (Lincoln, 1999). It is the nature of humans to marvel about the unknown and explain the unaccountable. It is also the desire for knowing that has inspired humans to fabricate amazing stories of his descent. Although segregation has been caused by geographical barriers many cultures have developed creation myths that have basic factors like chaos, the creation of humans, and the explanations of natural phenomena. Whereas few see myths as†¦show more content†¦Creation myths that come from diverse societies are samples of rational myths. However, there are other theories that give to creation as well (Scott, 2004). Another myth that perhaps contributes to creation is the structural myth theory. A structural myth theory suggests that a myth maybe characterized after human intellect and human nature. Basically the idea of the structural myth theory is an encounter between both good and bad and proposes examples of both acceptable and unacceptable behavior. This type of myth displays the positive and the negative characteristics of human nature. Structural myth has been recognized to exhibit the disunity of one’s self and duality of human essence. The structural theory is generally perceived of as unconscious regularities of the mind (Scott, 2004). This is just one other perspective of myth theories but should be distinguished given the entire lack of study that the structuralism approach concedes to the essence of myth. The history of psychology has observed many changes in its beliefs and methodologies. Psychology is the course of studying the human behavior and their interactions with the environment. The psychological theory demonstrates how a myth can be established on human emotions and are noted to transpire from a person’s subconscious mind. Because cultures from all over the globe have similar fears and questions that where unaccountable, is theShow MoreRelatedThe Importance of World Mythology1045 Words   |  5 PagesHumanities 2143: Mythology 24 October 2010 The Importance of World Mythology Everyone has seen on television or read in newspapers about how schools are changing their curriculum to tailor more towards helping students pass standardized tests. With this emphasis shift, teachers are less likely to educate students about mythology, let alone mythologies from other cultures. Students are missing out on a great opportunity to learn about diversity in cultures. 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Every country had them in its mythology.† (Knox, Wilson, â€Å"Dragon,† The World Book Encyclopedia, 1973) Dragons are told in almost every culture known to man. Descriptions of the Dragon have been written, drawn, and told in culture that could have never met. From the North American Native tribes to the great civilization of China, Dragons have been told. Why is that? Through my research on this, I have concluded many theories, but all these theories still don’t answer my question. In order