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Foundations of Mythology Short Answers

• How is the word myth used popularly? For example, what does the statement, “It’s a myth” mean? In contrast, how is the word myth used in the academic context? After considering the definition in your textbooks and course materials, write a definition in your own words.
Myths are ancient narratives that attempt to answer the enduring and fundamental human questions. Also known as an idealized conception which is a set of often idealized or glamorized ideas and stories surrounding a particular phenomenon, concept, or famous person In an academic context, a myth is a traditional or legendary story, usually concerning some being or hero or event, with or without a determinable basis of fact or a natural explanation, especially one that is concerned with deities or demigods and explains some practice, rite, or phenomenon of nature. In my own words a myth is a legendary story or fable told unproven, without all the facts. In some cases it is a story that is told from generation to generation about the history of a culture of people.
• 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.
Myths around the world often address similar themes, like the beginning of the world and the meaning of life, are the start of a culture are some of the heroes of the culture, because these are the things that matter to people regardless of their background. Myths introduce cultures who make them. Most myths are always created in the values and attitudes of the creator that created them.
• What is the relationship between belief, knowledge, mythology, and religion? Where do mythology and religion intersect? Where do they diverge? Think about the function of myth and religion in helping human beings cope with change, suffering, loss, and death.
Religion and mythology differ, but have overlapping aspects. Both terms

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