Greek Mythology

Greek mythology is the body of myths originally told by the ancient Greeks, and a genre of Ancient Greek literature. These stories concern the origin and nature of the world, the lives and activities of deities, heroes, and mythological creatures, and the origins and significance of the ancient Greeks' own cult and ritual practices. Modern scholars study the myths to shed light on the religious and political institutions of Ancient Greece, and to gain understanding of the nature of myth-making itself.

Overview

Greek mythology developed fully in the archaic period (c. 8th to 6th centuries BCE), with the works of Homer and Hesiod. Homer's epic poems Iliad and Odyssey are among the oldest extant works of Western literature and contain many mythological themes. Hesiod's Theogony and Works and Days introduce a structured pantheon of deities and a genesis story that became the foundation for many subsequent myths.

Major Themes and Myths

1. 1. 1. Creation Myths

Greek mythology begins with the creation of the universe and the emergence of the gods. The most comprehensive account is found in Hesiod's Theogony, which starts with the primordial deities such as Chaos, Gaia, and Eros. From these initial beings came the Titans, the Olympian gods, and eventually humans.

1. 1. 1. Olympian Gods

The twelve Olympian gods, including Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Demeter, Athena, Apollo, Artemis, Ares, Aphrodite, Hephaestus, Hermes, and either Hestia or Dionysus, reside on Mount Olympus and play a central role in many myths. Each deity has distinct attributes, domains, and stories that reflect the ancient Greeks' explanations of natural phenomena, human qualities, and life events.

1. 1. 1. Heroes and Heroic Quests

Greek mythology is replete with tales of heroes such as Heracles, Perseus, Theseus, and Achilles. These figures typically undertake significant quests or labors, face formidable foes, and enjoy divine favor or suffer divine wrath. Their stories often explore themes of heroism, morality, and the human condition.

1. 1. 1. The Underworld

The Greek underworld, ruled by Hades and Persephone, is a shadowy place where souls go after death. Myths involving the underworld, such as the tales of Orpheus and Eurydice, and Persephone's abduction, explore themes of death, rebirth, and the afterlife.

Cultural Impact

Greek myths have exerted a profound influence on Western culture, literature, and art. The Renaissance saw a resurgence of interest in classical antiquity, and Greek myths became a major source of artistic and literary inspiration. Today, these myths continue to be part of cultural and educational curricula, illustrating the lasting appeal of these ancient stories and their capacity to inspire and entertain.

See Also

• Roman mythology
• Norse mythology
• Egyptian mythology