The Point of Mythology

`“The point of mythology or myth is to point to the horizon and to point back to ourselves: This is who we are; this is where we came from; and this is where we're going. J. Michael Straczynski” Myths are for those who seek entertainment, understanding and knowledge that surrounds their geographical background. Myth’s are constant; told over and over, embedded into the heads of it’s people creating tradition for their culture. The statement “ It’s a myth” refers to myth as being a legend or story that is exaggerated or imaginary but widely acknowledged. Some stories are based on true accounts but fabrication is included to spark inspiration in those who believe. In Academia Myths are described in the book “Myth & knowing: An introduction to world mythology” as “For two and a half millennia, debates over the importance and meaning of myth have been struggles over matters of truth, religious belief, politics, social custom, cultural identity, and history” (Leonard & McClure, 2004). With this we must understand the purpose of myths for the definition to be valid, myths exist to explain how things came to be, teach lessons and values, unify a group, explain social or religious rituals and to entertain. The meaning that I understand myths as being is sacred stories that have been passed down for centuries that gives explanations for the unexplainable, that teaches lessons and gives moral structure to many functions of human existence.

Why do myths from different cultures around the world address such similar or universal themes? Think about how myths explain the unknown and the tribulations of mankind.

Since mythology has been around for centuries and used to link a human connection within them, it is not uncommon that Myths around the world would have similar themes. Many cultural backgrounds have many situational similarities and the fact that they have the same need for power, education, money, self-fulfillment and...