how to write an essay on greek mythology

122 Greek Mythology Essay Topics & Examples

Welcome to our list of Greek mythology essay topics! In you need good title ideas for your history paper or project, look no further. Here, you will find Greek mythology research topics that will help you learn more about gods like Zeus and Aphrodite. Check them out!

🔝 Top 10 Greek Mythology Essay Topics

🏆 best greek mythology topic ideas & essay examples, 📌 simple & easy greek mythology essay topics, 👍 good greek mythology topics for essays, 🔍 greek mythology research topics, ✅ greek mythology topics for presentation, ❓ research questions about greek mythology.

The Hero’s Journey Archetypes
What’s the Meaning of Pandora’s Box?
Love Story of Orpheus and Eurydice
Hades, Persephone, and the Afterlife
The Twelve Olympian Gods and Their Roles
Athena vs. Poseidon: The Contest for Athens
Infidelity and Betrayal in Greek Mythology
The Labors of Heracles and Divine Punishment
The Myth of Narcissus and the Narcissistic Personality
The Complexity of Medea’s Character in Greek Mythology
“The Matrix” Trilogy and Greek Mythology: Comparison One of the exceptions of the previous statements is the Matrix trilogy directed by Larry and Andy Wachowski.”The Matrix”, The Matrix: Reloaded”, and “The Matrix: Revolution”, all of which gained a cult status among fans, […]
Hercules in Greek Mythology The theme of his legends interpretation was to show the power of mythological heroes on the example of one of the most strong and powerful.
Medusa in Greek Mythology So, it should be pointed out that Medusa was the great character of the Ancient mythology and remains to be the significant image in the world of modern literature and art.
Athena and Gender Roles in Greek Mythology According to Eicher and Roach-Higgins, the elements of her dress were important because they immediately communicated specific ideas about her character that was as contradictory as the physical gender of the birthing parent.”In appropriating the […]
The Suffering Women in Greek Mythology Zeus told Hermes to go down to the underworld and bid the lord of it to let his bride to return to Demeter.
Roman & Greek Mythology in Pop Culture: Examples, Referenses, & Allusions One of the most famous examples of the use of the characters taken from Greek mythology in pop culture must be the mentioning of the famous goddess, Venus, in advertising, which is, in fact, based […]
The Issue of “Man’s Relationship with the Divine” in Greek Mythology As the reader explores the idea of divinity throughout most of the Greek mythologies and epics, it becomes clear that there is a strong connection between the people of Greece and their gods thus making […]
Perseus: A Hero of Greek Mythology With the protection of Hermes and Athena, Perseus went ahead and beheaded Gorgon Medusa and took her head to the king of the island.
Classical Mythology: Rats in Greek Mythology Hephaestus was the son of Zeus and Hera, and was the god of the creative fire, and was the divine artisan who worked with metals.
The Dichotomy of Women in Greek Mythology The male competitive spirit pushed women out of public life, and in the private sphere, the freedom of women was subjected to significant restrictions.
Medea in Greek Mythology: Literary Analysis In this case, the position of kingship was the highest in political rankings, equivalent to the presidency in modern-day practices. Most importantly, the element of leadership in Greek mythology was characterized by concessions and plots.
Political Concerns in Greek Mythology In other words, the ritual of killing the ruler to seize the throne is normal; it is the natural order of things for the Greeks and Romans.
Ancient Greek Mythology: Deities of the Universe Hades is the eldest son of Kronos and Rhea, the god and the guardian of the Underworld, the realm of the dead.
Owls in the Greek Mythology. A Lecture for Librarians They also believed that the owl was a keen full watcher of Athens trade, and that is why it was engraved at the back of their coins.
Greek Mythology, Religion, Philosophy, and History The ancient religious stories of the Minoans and the Mycenaean were transmitted orally to the other parts of the Mediterranean region which later fused with the Greek traditions and religious practices.
Greek Mythology: Story of Demeter and Persephone Review For example, Venus was the goddess of love, and her son Cupid was considered as the god of love; Pan was the god of the jungle, while Hymen was attributed to the domain of marriage, […]
Greek Deities in Primary Sources Hades is the god of the underworld, and he is the son of Cronus and Rhea. Dionysus is the god who represents wine-making, the fertility of the soil, drinking, and even theater; he is the […]
Greek Mythology – Medea by Euripides While the character shares certain features with some of the female leads in other Ancient Greek plays, Euripides’ Medea stands on her own as a character and represents a new set of qualities, which used […]
Greek Mythology: Historical and Factual Roots Greek mythology is a body of teachings used in ancient Greek to describe the human environment, the passing of time, and natural phenomena. The picture and the story behind it illustrate in many ways the […]
Greek Mythology Influence In fact, majority of the traditions that people in the modern society carry out have their origin in Greece. One Greek mythology that has influenced the whole world is the celebration of the Olympic Games.
The Struggles And Eventual Perseverance Of The Greek Mythology
Comparing And Contrasting Rouse And Hamilton’s Books On Greek Mythology
The Mysteries Surrounding How Man Was Created in Greek Mythology
The Influence of Ancient Greek Mythology on Modern Society
The Impact of Greek Mythology on the English Language
Zeus’ Tyranny in Greek Mythology
The Opposition Between Gods and Humans in Greek Mythology
Persephone: Greek Mythology and Spring Persephone Returns
An Analysis of Greek Mythology as a God of Wine and Vegetation
The Myth of Atlas, the Strongest Titan in the Greek Mythology
Understanding the Feminist Theory in Greek Mythology
The Amazons, A Tribe Of Ancient Greek Mythology
The Life And Power Of Zeus, King Of The Gods In Greek Mythology
Confronting Death in Greek Mythology: Allegiance to Family or Empire
Female Influence In Greek Mythology
The Important Role of Hades in the History of Greek Mythology
Ritualistic Sacrifice in Ancient Greek Mythology
The Powers and Symbols of Polyphemus in the Greek Mythology
The Role of Oracles in Chaldean and Greek Mythology
Examining Self Exile In Greek Mythology As A Defense Mechanism
The Portrayal of a Popular Greek Mythology in the Play Oedipus the King
The Theme of Prophecy in Greek Mythology and Literature
The Great Influences of Athene and Hermes in Greek Mythology
The Portrait Of The Roman And Greek Mythology
Story of Aphrodite and Her Son Cupid and Their Place in Greek Mythology
The Effects Of Kleos On Greek Mythology
The Role of Fate in Greek Mythology and Its Influence on American Society
The Tragedy of Medea and Jason from Greek Mythology
The Wise Old Man in the Story of Mentor in Greek Mythology
The Relationship of Greek Mythology and Christianity
The Essential Elements of Human Nature Illustrated through the Characters and Their Actions in the Greek Mythology
Chaldean and Greek Mythology and the Roles Played by Oracles and Fate
An Analysis of the Greek Mythology and the Concept of Creationism
Star Wars, Episode II: Relation With Ancient Greek Mythology And Its Heroes
The Elements of Change in Greek Mythology
The Study and Interpretations of Greek Mythology
The Hero of Athens, Theseus in Greek Mythology
The Relationship between Love and Sex in Greek Mythology
Greek Mythology and Immediate Satisfaction
The Impact of Greek Mythology on Western Culture
The Role of the Women in Greek Mythology
Death And Its Personification In Greek Mythology And Other Cultures
Greek Myths in Art and Literature
The Trojan War in Greek Mythology
Love and Desire in Greek Mythology
Heroes and Heroines of Greek Mythology
Greek Creation Myths of Chaos and Titans
Underworld and Afterlife in Greek Mythology
What Are the Moral Lessons of Greek Myths
How Greek Mythology Influences Pop Culture
The Powers and Stories of Greek Gods and Goddesses
Medusa, Cerberus, and Other Monsters in Greek Mythology
Chaoskampf as the Creation Myth
An In-Depth Exploration of Zeus, Hera, and Poseidon
Hercules, Perseus, and Their Legendary Quests
Goddesses of Wisdom and Beauty in Greek Mythology
The Trojan War: Myth and Reality
Mythical Creatures in Greek Folklore
Tragic Fates of Oedipus and Prometheus
The Influence of Greek Mythology on Modern Cinema
Greek Mythology in Sculptures, Pottery, and Temples
Persephone, Orpheus, and the Themes of Death and Resurrection
What Is the Role of Women in Greek Mythology? How Does It Differ From the Role of Women Today?
How Do the Myths Differentiate Between Human and Divine Power?
What Do the Greek Myths Suggest About Tragedy?
How Does Author Publius Ovidius Naso Capture the Spirit of the Greek and Roman Mythology?
Why Is Creon the Tragic Hero in Antigone?
How Does Child Abuse Affect a Hero, a God, and a Monster in Greek Mythology?
What Moral Lessons Do We Learn From the Greek Myths and Ancient Stories?
How Are Egyptian and Greek Culture Reflected Through Their Respective Mythology?
What Caused the Titanomachy War and Who Was Involved in It?
How Did Greek Mythology Influence Christianity?
Did Zeus and Apollo Have Anything in Common?
How Does Fate and Destiny Work According to Greek Mythology?
What Is the Story of Giants in Greek Mythology?
How Was the Stonehenge Made According to the Myth?
What Is the Most Unbelievable Myth You Find in the Greek Mythology?
How Does Zeus Play Into Modern-Day Religion?
What Is Something You Learned by Reading Homer’s Odyssey?
Why Did the Goddess Athena Help the Hero Perseus Defeat Medusa?
What Role Did Eros Play in the Life of Helen?
Who Was the First Mortal to Be Made a God?
Were the Trojan War and the Fall of Troy Necessary?
What Is the Significance of Pandora’s Box?
Did Jason Care for Medea or Exploit Her?
What Was the Significance of Prometheus’ Gift to Man?
Was the Trojan Horse a Clever Trick or an Act of Treachery?
Who Were the Key Figures in the Trojan War, and Why Was It Fought?
How Were Greek Myths Used to Keep Order in Society?
Can We Criticize the Gods, or Are They Always Perfect in Their Actions and Behavior?
Who Were the First Storytellers, and Why Were They Valued in Ancient Societies?
What Is the Difference Between an Epic, a Legend, and a Myth?
Chicago (A-D)
Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2024, February 27). 122 Greek Mythology Essay Topics & Examples. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/greek-mythology-essay-topics/

"122 Greek Mythology Essay Topics & Examples." IvyPanda , 27 Feb. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/greek-mythology-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2024) '122 Greek Mythology Essay Topics & Examples'. 27 February.

IvyPanda . 2024. "122 Greek Mythology Essay Topics & Examples." February 27, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/greek-mythology-essay-topics/.

1. IvyPanda . "122 Greek Mythology Essay Topics & Examples." February 27, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/greek-mythology-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "122 Greek Mythology Essay Topics & Examples." February 27, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/greek-mythology-essay-topics/.

Ancient Greece Paper Topics
Creation Myth Research Ideas
Ancient History Topics
Zeus Paper Topics
Odyssey Questions
Ancient Egypt Questions
Antigone Ideas
Poseidon Topics
Pseudoscience Topics
Medea Topics
Homer Titles
Allegory Essay Titles
Culture Topics
Roman Empire Ideas
Achilles Topics

How to Write a Greek Mythology Essay

how to write an essay on greek mythology

Introduction

Greek mythology has fascinated scholars and enthusiasts for centuries. The epic tales of gods, heroes, and mythical creatures have captivated the imagination of people across the globe. Writing a Greek mythology essay provides the perfect opportunity to delve into this engrossing subject and showcase your knowledge and analytical skills. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the key components of a successful Greek mythology essay and provide valuable tips and insights to help you craft an outstanding piece of academic writing.

Understanding Greek Mythology

Before embarking on your essay, it's important to have a solid understanding of Greek mythology's rich tapestry. Greek mythology encompasses a vast array of gods, goddesses, heroes, and mythical creatures, each with their own unique attributes and stories. Familiarize yourself with the major gods and goddesses, such as Zeus, Athena, and Apollo, as well as renowned heroes like Hercules and Perseus. Additionally, acquaint yourself with prominent myths, such as the Trojan War and the adventures of Odysseus in the Odyssey . This foundation will provide you with a wealth of material to analyze and discuss in your essay.

Choosing a Topic

When selecting a topic for your Greek mythology essay, consider your personal interests and the specific requirements of your assignment. You could focus on a particular god or goddess and explore their significance in Greek mythology, examining their roles and associated myths. Alternatively, you may opt to discuss a specific heroic figure and analyze their portrayal in various myths.

Another approach is to explore the overarching themes present in Greek mythology, such as the concept of fate, the power dynamics between gods and mortals, or the representation of women in ancient Greek society. By narrowing down your topic and selecting a specific angle, you can delve deeper into the subject matter and present a more focused and compelling essay.

Research and Gathering Sources

A successful Greek mythology essay relies on thorough research and a solid understanding of the primary sources. Dig deep into the works of renowned Greek writers, such as Homer, Hesiod, and Ovid, who have provided invaluable insights into the mythology of ancient Greece. Explore their epics and poems, such as the Iliad and the Metamorphoses , to gain a comprehensive understanding of the myths and characters.

In addition to classical sources, consult modern academic books, articles, and scholarly journals to gain different perspectives and interpretations. This will enable you to present a well-rounded analysis of your chosen topic and demonstrate your ability to engage with reputable sources.

Structuring Your Essay

A well-structured essay is crucial for conveying your ideas coherently and logically. Begin with an engaging introduction that provides background information on Greek mythology and presents your thesis statement. Your thesis statement should clearly state your argument or the main point you'll be discussing in your essay.

Subsequently, organize your essay into distinct paragraphs that focus on specific aspects or themes. Each paragraph should have a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea and supports your thesis. Use evidence from your research to support your claims and ensure a well-supported argument.

Remember to include appropriate citations and references whenever you include information from external sources. This demonstrates your academic integrity and strengthens your arguments.

Analyzing and Interpreting the Myths

Throughout your essay, aim to provide thoughtful analysis and interpretation of the myths you're discussing. Consider the cultural, historical, and societal contexts in which these myths were created, and explore their relevance and enduring impact on literature and popular culture.

Examine the themes, symbolism, and character motivations present in the myths. Compare and contrast different versions of the same myth to gain a deeper understanding of the variations and underlying messages. Engage with scholarly debates and offer your own well-reasoned interpretations.

In your conclusion, summarize your main arguments and restate your thesis in a concise manner. Reflect on the broader significance of Greek mythology and its enduring legacy. Conclude with a thought-provoking statement that leaves the reader with a lasting impression.

Final Thoughts

Writing a Greek mythology essay provides a captivating journey into the world of ancient gods and heroes. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you'll be well-equipped to craft an exceptional essay that showcases your knowledge and analytical prowess.

Remember to dedicate ample time to research, planning, and revision. Engage with primary and secondary sources, formulate a strong thesis, and present your arguments coherently. With these tools at your disposal, you'll be able to write an essay that stands out from the rest and demonstrates your expertise in the captivating realm of Greek mythology.

Case Study Help Online - Studybay

Essay on Silence: Comprehensive Guide - Studybay

Web Design Homework Help Website Design Assignment Help

How To Write an Academic Article

Find The Best Internship Essay Sample Right Here

Business Plan Composition: Outline Your Success - The Knowledge Nest

Help With Nursing Assignments - Studybay

Definition Of Heroism Essay: Great Example And Writing Tips

Book Report Helper - Book Report Writing Service

9 Trends In Hardware and Software to Bring You Up to Speed

History Classics
Your Profile
Find History on Facebook (Opens in a new window)
Find History on Twitter (Opens in a new window)
Find History on YouTube (Opens in a new window)
Find History on Instagram (Opens in a new window)
Find History on TikTok (Opens in a new window)
This Day In History
History Podcasts
History Vault

Greek Mythology

By: History.com Editors

Updated: August 15, 2023 | Original: December 2, 2009

Ancient Greece scene. Antic vase with silhouettes of mythology characters and gods, Vector legendary Greek people mythological pattern old culture with woman and man in toga with lyre and amphora.

Ancient Greek mythology is a vast group of legends about gods and goddesses, heroes and monsters, warriors and fools, that were an important part of everyday life in the ancient world. Greek myths explained everything from religious rituals to the weather, and gave meaning to the world that people saw around them. While many of these myths are fanciful tales, such as the legends of greedy King Midas or heroic Hercules, other stories like the Trojan War epic have a basis in historical fact.

Sources of Greek Mythology

There is no single original text, like the Christian Bible or the Hindu Vedas, that introduces all Greek myths’ characters and stories. Instead, the earliest Greek myths were part of an oral tradition that began in the Bronze Age , and their plots and themes unfolded gradually in the written literature of the archaic and classical periods of the ancient Mediterranean world.

The poet Homer ’s 8th-century BC epics, The Iliad and The Odyssey , for example, tell the story of the Trojan War as a divine conflict as well as a human one. They do not, however, bother to introduce the gods and goddesses who are their main characters, since readers and listeners would already have been familiar with them.

Around 700 BC, the poet Hesiod’s Theogony offered the first written cosmogony, or origin story, of Greek mythology. The Theogony tells the story of the universe’s journey from nothingness (Chaos, a primeval void) into being, and details an elaborate family tree of elements, gods and goddesses who evolved from Chaos and descended from Gaia (Earth), Ouranos (Sky), Pontos (Sea) and Tartaros (the Underworld).

Later Greek writers and artists used and elaborated upon these sources in their own work. For instance, mythological figures and events appear in the 5th-century plays of Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides and the lyric poems of Pindar. Writers such as the 2nd-century BC Greek mythographer Apollodorus of Athens and the 1st-century BC Roman historian Gaius Julius Hyginus compiled the ancient myths and legends for contemporary audiences.

Did you know? Many consumer products get their names from Greek mythology. Nike sneakers are the namesake of the goddess of victory, for example, and the website Amazon.com is named after the race of mythical female warriors. Many high school, college and professional sports teams (Titans, Spartans and Trojans, for instance) also get their names from mythological sources.

Greek Gods and Goddesses

At the center of Greek mythology is the pantheon of gods and goddesses who were said to live on Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece. From their lofty perch, they ruled every aspect of human life. Olympian deities looked like men and women (though they could change themselves into animals and other things) and were — as many myths recounted — vulnerable to human foibles and passions..

The twelve main Olympians are:

Zeus (Jupiter, in Roman mythology): the king of all the gods (and father to many) and god of weather, law and fate
Hera (Juno): the queen of the gods and goddess of women and marriage
Aphrodite (Venus): goddess of beauty and love
Apollo (Apollo): god of prophesy, music and poetry and knowledge
Ares (Mars): god of war
Artemis (Diana): goddess of hunting, animals and childbirth
Athena (Minerva): goddess of wisdom and defense
Demeter (Ceres): goddess of agriculture and grain
Dionysus (Bacchus): god of wine, pleasure and festivity
Hephaestus (Vulcan): god of fire, metalworking and sculpture
Hermes (Mercury): god of travel, hospitality and trade and Zeus’s personal messenger
Poseidon (Neptune): god of the sea

Other gods and goddesses sometimes included in the roster of Olympians are:

Hades (Pluto): god of the underworld
Hestia (Vesta): goddess of home and family
Eros (Cupid): god of sex and minion to Aphrodite

Greek Mythology: Heroes and Monsters

Greek mythology does not just tell the stories of gods and goddesses, however. Human heroes — including Heracles (aka Hercules), the adventurer who performed 12 impossible labors for King Eurystheus (and was subsequently worshipped as a god for his accomplishment); Pandora, the first woman, whose curiosity brought evil to mankind; Pygmalion, the king who fell in love with an ivory statue; Arachne, the weaver who was turned into a spider for her arrogance; handsome Trojan prince Ganymede who became the cupbearer for the gods; Midas, the king with the golden touch; Narcissus, the young man who fell in love with his own reflection; and Kratos, a god of strength and power—are just as significant.

Monsters and “hybrids” (human-animal forms) also feature prominently in the tales: the winged horse Pegasus, the horse-man Centaur, the lion-woman Sphinx and the bird-woman Harpies, the one-eyed giant Cyclops, automatons (metal creatures given life by Hephaestus), manticores and unicorns, Gorgons, pygmies, minotaurs, satyrs and dragons of all sorts. Many of these creatures have become almost as well known as the gods, goddesses and heroes who share their stories.

The Legacy of Greek Myths

The characters, stories, themes and lessons of Greek mythology have shaped art and literature for thousands of years. They appear in Renaissance paintings such as Botticelli ’s Birth of Venus and Raphael ’s Triumph of Galatea and writings like Dante ’s Inferno ; Romantic poetry and libretti; and scores of more recent novels, plays and movies. Much of the mythology was recorded in D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths , published in 1962 and still in print today.

HISTORY Vault: Clash of the Gods

Discover the history behind myths and legends.

Sign up for Inside History

Get HISTORY’s most fascinating stories delivered to your inbox three times a week.

By submitting your information, you agree to receive emails from HISTORY and A+E Networks. You can opt out at any time. You must be 16 years or older and a resident of the United States.

More details : Privacy Notice | Terms of Use | Contact Us

10 Writing Prompts from Greek Mythology

Not sure what you want to write your next story about? Need some inspiration to add life to a current project? Ever thought about using writing prompts from Greek mythology?

Storytelling has been around since there have been people with language. Humans need to experience their world through stories and through connections to others. These are stories that have been around for thousands of years, which means there is something compelling about them. Getting your writing inspiration from Greek Mythology can be a fun way to revitalize your own storytelling methods. The Greeks had some pretty amazing stories. Even Shakespeare was influenced by Greek mythology. Romeo and Juliet is an adaptation (of an adaptation) of the myth of Pyramus and Thisbe.

Using a myth as a starting point helps to give you a basic outline so you can focus on adding details and developing characters. To make it interesting you can play with the original story by changing key elements. What happens if you change the gender of the main character? What if you zoom the story into the future? They myths are often vague enough you can give the characters more detailed motivations. Change the relationships or the outcome of the story. See what the myth makes you think of and run with it. Have fun!

Below is a list of 10 writing prompts from Greek mythology and some ways you could use them to make an all new story.

And if you find these helpful, try the prompts from Irish , Norse , and Bulgarian myths.

1) Pyramus and Thisbe

Pyramus and Thisbe were two young people whose parents hated each other. The two were never allowed to spend time together but came to fall in love by talking through a hole in the wall. They decided to meet in person one night and arranged to meet near an old tomb under a mulberry tree. Thisbe got there first and saw a lion, bloody with its last meal, and fled in terror, leaving behind her veil. Pyramus then arrived, saw the veil, and assumed the lion had eaten his beloved. He fell on his sword under the mulberry tree. When Thisbe returned she saw Pyramus and lamented his death bitterly. She then killed herself with the same sword. Their blood splashed on the mulberry tree and the gods changed the color to red permanently in honor of the two lovers.

Writing Prompt

This is a story that has been done many times. For a fresh take, try changing the genre. You could have star-crossed lovers on a generation ship headed to colonize a new planet. Then an alien parasite takes over and makes people see their worst nightmares, in this case making the lovers see the image of each other dead. You could keep the ending or perhaps they find a way to fight it.

2) Sisyphus

King Sisyphus was overall a terrible man. He murdered his guests, a violation of the guest-host relationship Greeks prided themselves on, and generally ruled by force and cruelty. Furthermore he often claimed to be cleverer than Zeus, which was ultimately his downfall. On two different occasions he managed cheat death. The first time was when he betrayed a secret of Zeus so the god ordered Thanatos, Death, to chain Sisyphus in the Underworld. Sisyphus tricked Thanatos into getting chained himself and then escaped. As long as Death was chained, no one could die. No one could make sacrifices to the gods and no one could die in war. Ares eventually got angry that is wars were not as interesting with no death so he went and freed Thanatos and delivered Sisyphus.

Upon being delivered to the Underworld this time, the arrogant King tricked Persephone into letting him go. Finally Zeus stepped in and instead of letting Sisyphus spend his death in the Elysian Fields, forced him to push a rock up a hill. Zeus tricked Sisyphus by enchanting the rock to roll away from him and back down the hill making the task last for eternity.

Create a character who breaks a cherished tradition or challenges a respected authority. What creative punishments can you come up with? The story could be from the perspective of the rule-breaker, perhaps s/he is misunderstood or was tricked him/herself. Or make it from the perspective of the law enforcer tracking down the culprit after s/he escapes, for the first or second time.

3) Pygmalion and Galatea

Pygmalion was a sculptor on Cyprus. He had had a bad experience with some prostitutes and swore off women entirely, disdaining them all because of his experience. When he returned home be began working on a new project, an ivory carving of a woman he called Galatea. He poured everything into the sculpture and soon it was more beautiful than any woman alive. He cherished it and dressed it and brought it gifts. One day, he sacrificed a bull at the temple of Aphrodite. The goddess saw him and knew his desire. She granted his wish and gave him a sign, making the flames shoot up three times. When Pygmalion returned home he found his statue had come to life. Aphrodite blessed them with a happy, loving marriage and they even had a son.

Try this story with a gender swap. Or maybe imagine what a normal person would do when a statue came to life – freak out! You could also try from the statue’s point of view; is she conscious while she is ivory? How does she adjust to being alive?

Halcyon was the daughter of Aeolus the ruler of the winds. She was married to Ceyx, the king of Tachis. Their love was so strong even the gods knew about it. When Ceyx had to travel to consult the oracle at Delphi, Halcyon begged him not to go by boat because she was afraid of the sea. He went anyway and was lost in a storm. But before he drowned he asked Poseidon to bring his body back to the shore where Halcyon could find him.

Meanwhile, Haclyon asked Hera to keep him safe. Too late to save him, Hera sent Morpheus to tell her of Ceyx’s death. Halcyon was so distraught that she threw herself into the sea. The gods were so moved by her devotion that they transformed her and Ceyx into kingfisher birds so they could remain together on the shores. Aeolus calms the winds every January to allow the kingfishers to nest and raise their eggs. These are called the Halcyon days.

What if instead of dying in a storm Ceyx was deliberately attacked by one of the gods or even Halcyon’s father. Imagine if their deaths were faked and they were put into a sort of divine witness protection.

5) Bellerophontes and Pegasus

Bellerophontes, besides having one of the coolest names ever, was an adventurer. He loved looking for trouble and was an accomplished equestrian. His friend, Proteus a sea god, became jealous and sent Bellerophontes to his father in law in Lycia with a note that said the messenger should be killed. Bellerophontes didn’t know he shouldn’t trust Proteus so he delivered the note to the king. The king decided that instead of killing him outright, he would send Bellerophontes to kill the chimera who had been terrorizing region.

In order to succeed Bellerophontes was told he needed to tame Pegasus. He was advised to pray to Athena and sleep in her temple for a solution. He did so and Athena came to him in a dream. She told him where Pegasus went for water and gave him a golden bridle. Bellerophontes found Pegasus and waited, hiding, until the winged horse came and knelt for a drink. Then he jumped on the horse’s back and put the bridle on. Pegasus took to the sky and tried to get free but Bellerophontes kept a firm hold and eventually won the contest. Together the pair defeated the chimera, freeing the people of Lycia and winning the King’s daughter.

But Bellerophontes wanted more adventure. He wanted to fly Pegasus to Mt. Olympus. The gods were incredulous and Zeus decided to take action. He sent a gadfly to bite Pegasus, who then threw Bellerophontes. Athena saved the adventurer’s life but he was crippled. He spent the rest of his days searching for Pegasus but could not find him because Zeus kept the flying horse for himself.

This would be another fun one for a gender swap. Try making Bellerphontes a woman who wants to adventure despite social norms regarding women. Her friend might try to get her killed with the note to keep her from rocking the boat. Perhaps her fall from Pegasus comes when she tries to achieve too much for her sex. Or maybe she succeeds and shows them all.

6) Orpheus and Eurydice

Orpheus was the son of Apollo and Calliope, one of the muses, and had incredible skill with the lyre. He fell in love with Eurydice and they were happily married for a long time. But one day while out for a walk, Eurydice was harassed by a man who was beguiled by her beauty. She tried running away but was bitten by a snake and died. Orpheus was so distraught he played a song on his lyre that moved all the people and things on the earth. The gods were so touched that they allowed Orpheus to go to Hades to see his wife.

Orpheus played for Hades and Persephone and earned his wife back. The condition was that he could not turn to look back at her until he was fully in the light of the earth again. Just shy of the light, Orpheus began to doubt Hades because he couldn’t hear Eurydice’s footsteps. He turned and saw her as she was whisked back down to the Underworld. Again grief tore through Orpheus and he played his lyre and begged for death to take him so he could join his beloved. A pack of beasts, or Zeus with a lightning bolt, granted his wish and killed him. (But the muses kept his head and enchanted it to keep singing.)

This time change the genre. What would happen if this story took place in a distant future where humans are perfecting the ability to revive the dead. Orpheus tries to bring his love back but somehow loses his faith and loses her again at the last minute. Or, maybe humans have discovered a way to see into the afterlife and Orpheus treks into the unknown to bring her back but something goes wrong. You could always throw in some aliens for good measure.

7) Atalanta

Atalanta was an interesting figure and has several stories surrounding her. When she was born her father, King Shoeneus wanted a son so he abandoned her on a mountaintop to die or be saved by the gods. A bear adopted her and Atalanta became an impressive hunter. She took part in the hunt for the Calendonian Boar, making most of the men in the hunting party angry, but she was the first to draw blood from the beast.

Meleager, who eventually abandoned his wife for Atalanta, fell in lover with her and awarded her the boar’s skin. His uncles were furious that a woman was given the skin and Meleager killed them for their actions. Atalanta returned Meleager’s love but had sworn a vow of chastity to the goddess Artemis because of a prophesy that said losing her virginity would be disastrous for her. Distraught, Meleager joined the Argonauts to get away but Atalanta joined the crew to follow him upsetting Jason and many of the other crew members. But she took part in battles and was a benefit to the crew. She even won a wrestling match against Peleus.

Through the boar hunt, Atalanta’s father found out about her and wanted her back to marry her off. She did not want to, however, and forced him to agree that a suitor would have to beat her in a footrace, or be killed. He agreed and many men died in the attempt to win her hand. Finally, Hippomenes won by asking Aphrodite for help. She gave him three golden apples, which could not be resisted. When Atalanta pulled ahead of him in the race, he rolled out an apple and she had to go after it. He won the race and she married him.

They had a son, Parthenopaios, and lived happily for a while but met an unfortunate end. They ended up being punished either for making love in the temple of Zeus or for not giving Athena proper honor. The two were turned into lions, which were believed to only mate with leopards and not other lions, meaning they wouldn’t be able to be together anymore.

Atalanta provides many stories to work with. Pick one or put them all together into a longer work. The story of Atalanta and Meleager would make for a compelling romantic tragedy (typical Greeks). You could also change it some. Perhaps Atalanta is under a curse that the two must break in order to be together. (There, teach those Greeks it doesn’t always have to end in tragedy.)

8) Theseus and the Minotaur

After his son was assassinated, King Minos of Crete declared war on Athens. As the result of a war or of Athen’s surrender, every nine years seven Athenian boys and seven girls were sent to Crete as sacrifice. They were forced into the Labrynth to face the Minotaur. On the third shipment of youths, Theseus volunteered to go and slay the beast.

When he got there, King Minos’ daughter, Ariadne, offered to help Theseus. He told her he would take her with when he escaped. She gave him a ball of thread to mark his path and told him how to get to the center. He made his way to the Minotaur and killed and decapitated it. Theseus escaped in the night with the Athenian youths, Ariadne and her sister. They stopped on the island of Naxos to rest and Athena woke Theseus early, telling him to abandon Ariadne there. Theseus left before she woke. Ariadne was distraught when she woke alone and the god Dionysus, whose island she was on, felt bad for her and married her.

Write this one from Ariadne’s point of view. It is usually taken for granted that Ariadne fell in love with brave Theseus and wanted him to take her away and marry her. Write it as though she used him to get out and arranged for him to leave her on Naxos so she could live out her own life.

9) Cassandra

The story of Cassandra is a tragedy through and through. Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy and a priestess of Apollo. She was given the gift of prophesy by Apollo in exchange for sleeping with him. When she refused he then cursed his original gift so that no one would believe her prophesies. This caused most people to believe she was mad and in some versions her father locked her up, causing her to truly become mad.

She tried many times to tell the Trojans about the impending war, the many loses, the Greek-filled horse, and the aftermath. Of course, no one believed her and she was forced to watch everything happen as she foresaw. During the sack of the city, Ajax the Lessor found her clinging to the statue of Athena in her temple. Despite rules about touching supplicants and sex in temples he raped her. Athena was so furious that she punished Ajax, his people, and the Greeks who didn’t punish him. This is what caused the storm that sent Odysseus off course.

In the end Cassandra ended up going home with Agamemnon with the spoils of war. She tried one more prophesy, telling him of their murders by his wife and brother. It naturally came true and they were both slain.

I would love to read a story about Space Cassandra. But it would also be fun to see a take where Cassandra finds a way to make people do what she wants them to do. She knows they won’t believe the truth but what if she could fashion lies that would lead them in the right direction. She could play up the madness and have all sorts of hijinx as well.

10) Hercules

This last myth is one close to my heart. I used this one as inspiration for my own current writing project. I don’t have space to do the whole thing but I’ll give the highlights.

Hercules was the son of Zeus and Alcmene. Hera was incredibly jealous and decided to ruin Hercules’ life. She made him go mad and kill his entire family. When he came to, he realized what he’d done and, even though he had been forgiven legally, sought some sort of penance. He ended up working for King Eurystheus doing a total of twelve labors.

The tasks included killing a lion whose skin could not be penetrated, cleaning the stables of immortal horses, capturing a deer sacred to Artemis, gathering a lost herd of cattle, and slaying a number of beasts. They were all designed to kill him and/or humiliate him. Hera was pulling the strings the whole time and trying to get rid of him.

Athena helped him along the way and he eventually completed all the tasks. Some traditions say that when he was done he joined Jason and the Argonauts on the quest for the golden fleece.

This time I’ll let you know how I adapted the myth. First I did a gender swap. I changed Hercules to a young woman and decided to make her a student and instead of killing her family in a magic-induced fury, she kills people at the school. I also made it take place on a system of moons, giving the story a science-fiction feel. In my version she doesn’t know who made her go mad and the series revolves around discovering this and putting a stop to it.

I could find writing prompts from Greek mythology all day. Ancient myths are great sources of writing inspiration. I gave suggestions for each of the myths I listed but you could come up with dozens of ways to customize each one. Look for the fundamental story type of the myth and then have fun with the details.

Unfortunately I couldn’t include all of the myths. Let me know in the comments what Greek myths you’d like to use for writing inspiration.

If you liked what you found here consider supporting this site on Ko-Fi.

10 Writing Prompts from Hans Christian Andersen

15 Writing Prompts from Lovecraft

10 Writing Prompts from Bulgarian Folklore

made my day

You are a very clever person!

QuixoticQuill

That’s very kind of you. 🙂

Salvador Shunk

I am thankful that I observed this web site, precisely the right info that I was searching for! .

These are awesome prompts! You’re so creative. Hope your writing project went well.

Thank you so much! I hope you get some good use out of them. Feel free to link back to your stories if you do.

Essay on Mythology

Students are often asked to write an essay on Mythology in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Mythology

What is mythology.

Mythology is a collection of myths, or old stories, that were told by people long ago. These stories were about gods, goddesses, and heroes. They were used to explain things that people did not understand, like how the world was made, why the seasons change, and why bad things happen.

Types of Mythology

There are many different kinds of mythology from all around the world. For example, Greek mythology talks about Zeus and his family of gods. Norse mythology includes Thor and Odin, and Egyptian mythology has gods like Ra and Anubis.

Importance of Myths

Myths were important because they helped people make sense of the world. They also taught lessons and values. Today, we still enjoy these stories and learn from them. They show us how people from the past tried to understand life and the world around them.

Also check:

Speech on Mythology

250 Words Essay on Mythology

Mythology is a collection of myths or stories that a group of people believe in. These myths are often about gods, heroes, and the natural world. They were created long ago to explain how things came to be. Every culture has its own set of myths that are passed down through generations.

Types of Myths

There are many kinds of myths. Some tell the stories of how the world started, which are called creation myths. Others explain why we have different seasons or why certain animals look the way they do. There are also myths about gods and their adventures, and heroes who go on quests and fight monsters.

Gods and Goddesses

In mythology, gods and goddesses are powerful beings who control different parts of the world and human life. For example, Zeus is the king of the gods in Greek mythology, and he controls the sky and thunder. There are gods for almost everything, like love, war, the sea, and the harvest.

Lessons from Myths

Myths are not just stories; they also teach us lessons. They show us how to be brave, smart, and kind. They teach us right from wrong and help us understand our feelings. Myths can also warn us about the dangers of being too proud or greedy.

Mythology Today

Even today, myths are all around us. They are in books, movies, and art. Names of planets and stars come from myths, and we still tell these ancient stories. Mythology helps us remember the past and understand different cultures better. It shows us how people from long ago tried to make sense of the world.

500 Words Essay on Mythology

Mythology is a collection of myths or stories that a group of people believe. These stories are often about gods, goddesses, heroes, and monsters. They were used in the past to explain things that people did not understand, like why the sun rises and sets or why seasons change. Each culture has its own set of myths that are passed down from generation to generation.

There are many types of mythology from all over the world. For example, Greek mythology tells tales of gods like Zeus and Athena and heroes like Hercules. Norse mythology has stories of Odin and Thor, while Egyptian mythology includes gods like Ra and Anubis. These stories are not just entertaining; they also give us a peek into how people from different places and times tried to make sense of the world.

The Purpose of Myths

Myths were not just stories for fun. They had many purposes. They were used to teach lessons and morals. For example, the story of Icarus, who flew too close to the sun, teaches us about the dangers of overconfidence. Myths also helped to explain the rules of society and why it’s important to follow them. They were a way to pass on important information and values from one generation to the next.

Mythology and Religion

In many cultures, mythology and religion are closely linked. The gods and goddesses in myths were often worshipped in real life. People built temples for them, made statues in their honor, and told their stories as part of their religious practices. For example, in ancient Greece, there were many festivals and ceremonies to honor the gods and goddesses from their myths.

Mythology in Modern Times

Even though we now have science to explain many of the things that myths used to, these old stories are still very much alive today. They can be found in books, movies, and video games. Characters like Thor and Zeus have become superheroes in comics. Myths are also studied in school to learn about history and culture. They remind us of the power of storytelling and the human imagination.

Learning from Mythology

Mythology is not just about gods and magic. It is also about human nature and experiences. By reading myths, we can learn about bravery, love, jealousy, and all the other feelings that people have always felt. Myths show us that even though the world has changed a lot, people’s feelings and behaviors have stayed pretty much the same.

In conclusion, mythology is a window into the past and a mirror reflecting our own lives. It is full of exciting stories that help us understand the world and ourselves better. Whether it’s the adventures of ancient heroes or the powers of mighty gods, these tales continue to fascinate and teach us, just as they have for thousands of years.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Essay on My Summer Holiday
Essay on My Success
Essay on My Strength In Life

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Greek Mythology - Free Essay Samples And Topic Ideas

Greek mythology, a body of myths and teachings that belong to the ancient Greeks, contains a rich narrative of gods, heroes, and the human condition. Essays on Greek mythology could delve into the exploration of major myths, the Greek pantheon, and the significance of mythological figures in ancient Greek society. Discussions might also explore the influence of Greek mythology on Western culture, its reflection on human nature, and its representation in literature, art, and modern media. Moreover, analyzing the symbolic meanings, the moral lessons, and the enduring fascination with Greek mythology can provide a rich understanding of its substantial impact on storytelling and cultural discourse. A vast selection of complimentary essay illustrations pertaining to Greek Mythology you can find at Papersowl. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Pan’s Labyrinth Greek Mythology

Pan's Labyrinth is a 2006 surreal fairytale film in which an 11-year-old girl named Ofelia deals with the reality of her bleak life on a military compound in 1944's fascist Spain with her sickly pregnant mother and her violent stepfather by seamlessly blending fantastical elements with reality. Ofelia in Pan's Labyrinth undergoes labors to reach an ultimate "happy" ending and the film draws from Greek myth, blending ancient narratives with modern culture and politics. Pan's Labyrinth, following the typical hero's […]

Oedipus Rex – Greek Mythology of Heroism and Tragedy

As part of three Theban plays written by Sophocles, Oedipus Rex is the story of man who consults an oracle and learns of his fate; that he will kill his father and marry his mother. Once learning his fate, he then runs away from ""home. Later, Oedipus becomes king after defeating the Sphinx, that was terrorizing his birth home. When a plague strikes the city, Oedipus goes in search of the murderer in order to rid of the plague. While […]

Greek Values in the Odyssey

Many Greek rhapsodes have been telling the world about the story of The Odyssey, by Homer. This story was written and peaked in a time of believing in many gods and Greek values. These values in one way or another have crept into The Odyssey. Odysseus has set the example of a Hero's Journey during the poem, but not only is he going through the Journey, but teaches Greek values such as Xenia, Nostos,don't defy the gods, and Kleos, through […]

We will write an essay sample crafted to your needs.

Hero or Father and Son Archetype in Greek Mythology

A monomyth is basically a Hero's journey. Such kind of a story describes the various stages a hero goes through throughout their journey (Wise Geek). The very first man to introduce a narrative description of this kind was Joseph Campbell. In his description, he explains all the three stages coupled with the steps in each stage in which the hero must go through. In the first stage, departure of the hero occurs. In every heroic Greek Mythology, we realize that […]

Women in Greek Mythology

Aphrodite, Artemis, Sappho, Persephone, Medusa, and Helen of Troy. These are only a few examples of the notorious female figures that were once established in ancient Greece. When I was in elementary school, my friends and I were obsessed with Greek mythology. During recess, we would go to the playground and pretend to be Greek goddesses living on Mount Olympus and saving the lives of mortals. We did this every day, barely being able to wait until we could go […]

Odysseus Leadership

In The Odyssey by Homer, Odysseus is faced with many daunting obstacles. With each obstacle, Odysseus evolves and reveals strong leadership qualities. The abundance of leadership protects Odysseus and his crew and allows Odysseus to return to Ithaca; therefore, Odysseus represents an ideal leader because he conveys an immense amount of compassion, cunning intelligence, and extensive bravery. To begin, Odysseus shows endless consideration for all of his men which makes him a strong leader. He always looks out for his […]

Humanism in Greek Mythology

Humanism is the belief that basically the experiences of humans and thinking rationally provide the only real source of moral code to live by and knowledge as well. In many myths, it is a human who is the hero and usually the hero is a humanist themselves. Normally in myths, even if there are gods and goddesses, they are rarely prayed too and are normally not treated like deieties but just as gods and goddesses who have emotions just like […]

Poseidon: the Cruel Creator God of Greek Mythology

My claim is that Poseidon was actually a pretty bad god, You might be thinking Why would a god be mean? I mean he wasn’t like a bully or anything, but Poseidon was cruel. I mean after Athens and the many more things, how could he be nice? One reason I believe Poseidon was a bad God is that he did take advantage of many females. How many of you know the story of Medusa? Okay, when I thought of […]

The Penelopiad and the Odyssey

Have you ever heard of the saying, There are two sides to every story? All throughout reading The Penelopiad, I had to keep this saying in mind, in recognizition of Homer's, The Odyssey. Homer and his wonderful storytelling skill absolutely glorified Odysseus' heroism, yet I found that there wasn't enough proper insight into the victims of his venegence. What Margaret Atwood set out to do through her The Penelopiad was to offer an alternate perspective of the events in Ithaca […]

Legendary Hero in Greek Mythology – Odysseus

Ten years after the trojan war everyone returns home except for odysseus and he will soon go back to Ithaca. In the tenth year of the Trojan War, the Greeks tricked the enemy into bringing a colossal wooden horse within the walls of Troy. The Trojans had no idea that Greek soldiers were hidden inside, under the command of odysseus. That night they emerged from the horse and slaughtered them all. The Odyssey is typically classified as an epic, but […]

Artemis: the Multifaceted Moonlight Huntress of Greek Mythology

In the intricate tapestry of Greek mythology, Artemis stands out as a goddess of contradictions, embodying both nurture and wilderness, light and shadow. She is the ever-virginal huntress, protector of the wild, and beacon for women, yet she's also the unforgiving avenger, striking down those who offend her or her loved ones. A deep dive into the character and tales of Artemis offers not only a glimpse into the ancient Greek psyche but also an understanding of the multifaceted nature […]

The Odyssey Books Summary

Book 1 10 years after the Trojan War, Odysseus still has not returned home. By this time, his son Telemachus has grown up and his wife, Penelope has gained many suitors that want his family’s wealth. The suitors dishonor Odysseus and his family by eating all of the family’s livestock. Odysseus has been missing for a long time, so people try to take advantage of his absence by winning over Penelope. They think Odysseus is probably dead. Athena likes Odysseus […]

Greek Mythology: Deciphering the Enigma of Pandora

Pandora is a character steeped in myth and mystery, and her name is often associated with curiosity and unexpected outcomes. Greek mythology portrays Pandora as the first human woman created by the gods, rather than a divinity. She is sometimes referred to as the Greek Eve, in contrast to the Biblical Eve. Her tale, ingrained in the fabric of classical Greek civilization, provides an intriguing window into the human condition, the divine-human interaction seen in mythology, and the first ideas […]

Rhea: the Mother of Gods in Greek Mythology

Within the Greek mythology pantheon, Rhea has a special and noteworthy position. Rhea's narrative, which is sometimes eclipsed by the stories of the more well-known Olympians, is one of tenacity, slyness, and maternal power. Her parents were Uranus and Gaia, hence she was a Titaness, descended from a higher order of gods before the Olympians. In Greek mythology, Rhea is most known for being the mother of the first group of Olympian gods, which includes Zeus, Hestia, Demeter, Hera, Hades, […]

Unveiling the Firebearer: Prometheus in Greek Mythology

In the grand tapestry of Greek mythology, where gods and mortals interweave in a cosmic dance, one figure stands out as a symbol of rebellion and enlightenment – Prometheus, the firebearer. In the pantheon of Greek deities, Prometheus carved his niche as a benevolent trickster, a champion of humanity who dared to defy the divine order for the sake of enlightenment and empowerment. Prometheus, whose name means "forethought" in Greek, emerges as a complex and multifaceted character in the myths. […]

Zeus Unleashed: the Astounding Powers of Greek Mythology’s Chief

When you think of Greek mythology, Zeus is probably the first name that springs to mind. He's not just any god; he's the god, the big boss of Mount Olympus, and his powers are as epic as the tales that surround him. Zeus is to Greek gods what the sun is to the solar system – central, commanding, and incredibly powerful. Let’s dive into the awe-inspiring array of powers that Zeus wielded, painting a picture of why he was the […]

Examples of Odysseus being a Good Leader

DO's Of Being a Good Leader DO USE INGENUITY WHEN FIGHTING YOUR ENEMIES: Odysseus showed good leadership when he saved the remaining men from his crew from the cyclops. In order to do this, he hid his men in cattle to escape from the cyclops. In the Odyssey, Odysseus states, I tied them [rams] silently together then slung a man under each middle one to ride there safely, shielded left and right. This shows how Odysseus came up with a […]

Zeus: the Reign of the King of the Gods in Greek Mythology

Zeus is the undisputed ruler of the gods and a representation of strength, authority, and the complexity of relationships between the divine and human in the Greek mythology pantheon. His tale, which is intertwined with Greek mythology, provides an enlightening look into the beliefs, culture, and cosmic knowledge of the ancient Greeks. Zeus's rise to prominence was a story of conflict and intrigue. He was born into a family of Titans, Cronus and Rhea, and from the beginning, his entire […]

Hades: the Enigmatic God of the Underworld in Greek Mythology

Hades has a unique and rather misunderstood place in the rich fabric of Greek mythology. Hades is a character steeped in mystery and misunderstandings, often eclipsed by his more flashy Olympian brothers. This article aims to elucidate the intricacies of Hades as a god by investigating his function, features, and cultural importance in ancient Greek civilization. Hades, Zeus' and Poseidon's brother, ruled over the underworld, the realm of the dead. His kingdom was not just a place of punishment for […]

Peeling Back the Layers: Greek Mythology’s Prometheus

The prometheus myth, an important archetype in Greek mythology, has endured for millennia as an emblematic representation of defiance, anticipation, and the indomitable quest for wisdom that characterizes the human spirit. Titan, renowned for his sagacity and resistance against the celestials, occupies a distinctive position within mythological accounts. The narrative he recounts, which encompasses everything from bestowing fire upon humanity to enduring everlasting punishment, provides profound enlightenment, divine authority, and the human condition. This essay delves into the cultural and […]

Leto: the Divine Mother of Apollo in Greek Mythology

Leto is known as the progenitor of Apollo and Artemis, both of whom have substantial significance as important deities within the Olympian pantheon. While the data for her story is not as extensive as that of other deities, it is nonetheless an important element of Greek mythology's narrative weave. This article covers Leto's life, focusing on her origins, her relationship with Zeus, the challenges she faced as a mother, and her enduring significance in the context of Greek mythological tradition. […]

Culture Ancient Greece and the Odyssey

Ancient Greece had a very unique culture. In The Odyssey by Homer, it teaches us that Ancient Greece was based on fate power(ranking in society) and believing in many gods. Not only Odysseus but his son Telemachus were controlled by fate ancient. The Greek gods were the ones in control of the fate of and his family. Telemachus is a young boy when his father Odysseus leaves Ithaca to fight in the Trojan war. As Odysseus is away Telemachus grows […]

The Look into Greek Mythology

The two stories homer's the Odyssey and Apollodorus Jason and the Argonauts are two epic stories that are important to the understanding of early civilization and early literature. Jason and the Argonauts is about a voyage of Jason, sent by his uncle Pelias, and a band of heroes on the voyage to find the Golden Fleece. The ship sailed was called the Argo crafted by Argo himself with the help of the goddess Athena, the ship was said to be […]

Examining the Roles of Women in Homer’s the Odyssey

Throughout Homer's epic tale of fantastical beasts and heroic ideals, Odysseus encounters several women and goddesses on his arduous journey fraught with peril at every step. The Odyssey is a collection of 24 stories that tell of Odysseus' journey back to his homeland, Ithaca, after the conclusion of the fabled Trojan War. Although goddesses such as Athena and Calypso hold absolute strength and divine power over mortal women, even they are powerless in some aspects. In The Odyssey, women play […]

Greek and Roman Mythology

Aeneas is an important part of Greek and Roman Mythology, along with Jason, Odysseus, and Achilles. They are all partially similar, but what similarities and differences do they have? What happened to some women in their lives? What are some weaknesses they have? Who are their parents? What challenges do they each face? What events occured to the women in each hero’s lives? Aeneas had two wives in his life. Creusa of troy who vanished after she asked Aeneas to […]

Comparison of Dido and Medea

The Aeneid written by Virgil, narrates the adventure of the hero Aeneas as he looks for a new land for the Trojan after the collapse of Troy. As a result, he becomes a hero and an ancestor of the Roman after a big fight between the Trojan and the Italian. Before coming to Italy, there was an incident that leads to the conflict between Dido and Aeneas, and it caused to the death of Queen Dido. In this essay, I […]

Homer and the Odyssey

Homer's epic, The Odyssey has been the inspiration of countless movies, stories, and television shows throughout history. The story is filled with monsters, adventure, fighting, love, loss, and magic-- and obviously people have taken a liking to the mystical nature of Homer's writings. Homer's epics are well known throughout the world and are taught in schools to discuss Greek Mythology and the art of storytelling. In this paper, I will be discussing the life of the author of The Odyssey, […]

The Odyssey Vs Seafarer

The Odyssey tells the story of a heroic but far from perfect protagonist who is known by the name Odysseus, he faces many challengers, including his own stubbornness when it comes to listening to the gods' warnings, on his drawn-out journey home from war. Along the way the epic poem explores ideas on fate, retribution, and the importance of host-guest hospitality in ancient Greece. While the Odyssey is not told in order in which the events occur, or from a […]

The Odyssey Questions

Book 1 A goddess has asked to see a Muse (divine daughter of Zeus). She wanted to hear the story of a wanderer in Troy’s adventure. The Muse begins reciting the story of Odysseus to the goddess. Telemachus is conspired against, and Odysseus’ family is dishonored in his absence. Telemachus may be killed when he returns, or Odysseus will return in time to kill the suitors. Telemachus is very committed, searching to and fro for Odysseus, and Penelope is inhumanly […]

Portraying Women in the Odyssey

In most historical writing, women appear submissive and weak. However in The Odyssey, depicted by Gareth Hinds, it shows women to be welcoming, kind and smart. As Odysseus is traveling to his home Ithaca, he has a lot of trouble along the way, without the help of women he would not have been able to get home. Women are portrayed positively in the The Odyssey shown by characters such as the Nausicaa, the Daughter of the Old Man of the […]

How to Write a Myth

Last Updated: April 1, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was reviewed by Gerald Posner . Gerald Posner is an Author & Journalist based in Miami, Florida. With over 35 years of experience, he specializes in investigative journalism, nonfiction books, and editorials. He holds a law degree from UC College of the Law, San Francisco, and a BA in Political Science from the University of California-Berkeley. He’s the author of thirteen books, including several New York Times bestsellers, the winner of the Florida Book Award for General Nonfiction, and has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in History. He was also shortlisted for the Best Business Book of 2020 by the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 427,982 times.

You might know the stories about Hercules and Zeus , or stories from the many other mythological traditions around the world. These stories explain reasons behind natural events or cultural traditions, or the characters in them are examples or counter-examples of how you should act. Whether you're creating a serious mythology or writing a silly story to entertain people, myths fuel the imagination of both writer and listener.

Brainstorming Ideas

Why does the moon wax and wane?
Why do vultures have bald heads?
Why do people prepare and eat foods in certain ways, or on certain holidays?

The hero succeeds only when he follows the advice of elders or gods — or alternatively, only when he is self-reliant.
The hero must be clever to succeed, solving problems in creative ways.
Some myths even teach that luck can be more important than skill. It can be fun to hear about an "ordinary" person who gets rewarded, or entertaining to hear about a complete fool who somehow becomes king. [1] X Research source Meletinsky, Eleazar, ed. F. Oinas and S. Soudakoff. <i>The Low Hero of the Fairytale</i>. 1975.

Step 3 Turn your idea into something fantastical.

If you're having trouble coming up with a mythological explanation for the topic you chose, write down a list of words that remind you of snow. If you want to explain how snowstorms happen, write down "cold, wet, white, snowman, ice cream, clouds." Maybe snowmen live in the sky and sneeze snow down to earth, or maybe the clouds try to give us ice cream that melts on the way down.

Is the hero super-strong, super-intelligent, or incredibly talented in one area? Some heroes have "superpowers" such as shooting a bow with perfect aim, or the ability to knock people over with the wind from their breath.
Why does your hero have these special talents, if any? Did the gods bless the hero, did the hero train hard, or was the hero just born that way? Which kind of person would you admire, or which do you think matches the real world best?

The hero is overconfident, and ignores advice or turns down an offer of help.
The hero is greedy or lustful, and tries to steal or take something that doesn't belong to her.
The hero is arrogant, and thinks he's better than everyone else, or even better than the gods.

If you're out of ideas, try reading collections of actual myths, or modern books that use mythological characters. Percy Jackson and the Olympians is a good example

Writing the Myth

Step 1 Write in simple, straightforward language.

This tends to make the plot move pretty quickly. In one version of the Herakles myth, the hydra is introduced, tracked down, and killed in just eight sentences. [3] X Research source

Use iconic symbols. These vary between traditions, but often include the numbers 3 and 7, animals like the raven or the seal, or characters like the prince or the trapped faerie.
Use the same structure for several sentences in a row. For example: "Seven days he went up into the sky, and seven days he walked down to go to Xibalbá; seven days he was transformed into a snake ...; seven days he was transformed into an eagle." [4] X Research source Florescano, Enrique. <i>The Myth of Quetzalcoatl</i>. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins UP, 1999. Print.
Give people a short, descriptive epithet. This is especially popular in Greek epics, which often use epithets that refer to other stories, such as "Dionysus the wolf-repeller" or "Apollo, carrier of the bay branches."

Step 3 Introduce the setting and main character.

Set the myth in the distant past, or a distant land. Think of all the stories you know that begin "Once upon a time," "Far, far away," or even "A long, long time ago."
Describe the kind of hero people expect in myths. For instance, a youngest brother, a king, or a woodcutter are all common heroes in folk tales. For more epic myths, start with a famous hero or a goddess instead.

Step 4 Create a reason for the main character to do something.

Coyote notices people shivering in winter, and they plead for a way to warm themselves.
A queen ignores her suffering subjects. The gods send a plague to her daughter, and the queen must learn to help people in exchange for their assistance to cure her daughter.

Introduce a new character. This can be a god, a spirit, a talking animal, or an elder. The character might describe the next challenge to come and how to overcome it, or give the hero a magical item that he can use later.
Create a new challenge. Just when everything is looking good again, have the hero make a mistake, or send a monster to undo the hero's good work. This is useful if you want the story to go on longer.

"And that's why the sun gets hotter and bright every summer."
"And ever since then, people brush their teeth to a shine every night, so the tooth-stealing goblins are scared by their own hideous reflection."

Fill in the Blank Template for a Myth

Community Q&A

There are many great sources of inspiration online, where you can read about Chinese legends, Slavic folk tales , Aztec mythology, the Norse Poetic Edda , and myths from many other traditions. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

Playing video games can actually help with writing! I was playing Pokémon Legends: Arceus and was wondering why people in the Pokémon universe worshipped Arceus. That gave me the idea to write a myth/origin story for Arceus. So, video games can give you ideas as well as broaden your creative sense.
When you're first starting out, try writing a myth about a natural mystery, like how planets were made or why leaves change color. It can also help to draft the myth from a third-person perspective (he/she/they).
If you need some inspiration, I would recommend reading books that are inspired by classic myths, like Percy Jackson & the Olympians by Rick Riordan.
Have a pair of heroes rather than just one. That way, they can rely on one another throughout the myth.

↑ Meletinsky, Eleazar, ed. F. Oinas and S. Soudakoff. The Low Hero of the Fairytale . 1975.
↑ https://www.museums.cam.ac.uk/sites/default/files/CopyofDesignyourownGreekmyth2.pdf
↑ https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Apollod.+2.5.2&fromdoc=Perseus%253Atext%253A1999.01.0022
↑ Florescano, Enrique. The Myth of Quetzalcoatl . Baltimore: Johns Hopkins UP, 1999. Print.
↑ https://penandthepad.com/stylistic-elements-legend-10020604.html
↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/reading-aloud/

About This Article

Since myths tell how or why something in the real world happens, the first step is to decide what your myth will explain, and decide what kind of moral the story will have. Then, make sure you include some things that could never happen, like a tree that grows spaghetti. As you write your myth, make it sound more mythical by re-using the same type of sentence structures or giving characters short titles, like “Fido, fetcher of sticks.” Finally, remember to set up a problem for your hero to solve by the end of the story! For more advice, like how to give your hero specific attributes, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Oct 21, 2016

Did this article help you?

Oct 15, 2017

Mike McDonald

Nov 7, 2017

Lelanie Alegiojo

Jul 25, 2017

Yaya Mbomvu

Sep 5, 2021

Featured Articles

Watch Articles

Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Do Not Sell or Share My Info
Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve

Greek Mythology essay

Greek Mythology is a set of diverse traditional tales told by the ancient Greeks about the exploits of gods and heroes and their relations with ordinary mortals. The ancient Greeks worshipped many gods within a culture that tolerated diversity. Cosmogony is the study of the universe. Creation mythologies explain the actual formation of the world by a variety of processes. These processes include the sacrifice of a primal being (for example, a giant or serpent); a struggle between supernatural powers; the blending or coalescing of elements, particularly water and earth; the incubation of a cosmic egg; and the uttering of a divine word.

In myths that credit primary creation to gods, such as the Greek deities Uranus (sky god) and Gaea (earth goddess), these deities often become hazy, remote figures in later mythology, and stories often recount their overthrow by their own offspring. For example, in the Greek tradition, Zeus succeeded his father Cronus and grandfather Uranus to become ruler of the gods Unlike other belief systems, Greek culture recognized no singe truth or code and produced no sacred, written text like the Bible and Qur’an.

Stories about the origins and actions of Greek divinities varied widely, depending, for example, on whether the tale appeared in a comedy, tragedy, or epic poem. Greek mythology was like a complex and rich language, in which the Greeks could express a vast range of perceptions about the world. Greek mythology has several distinguishing characteristics, in addition to multiple versions. The Greek gods resembled human beings in their form and in their emotions, and they lived in a society that resembled the human society in its levels of authority and power.

However, a crucial difference existed between gods and human beings: Humans died and gods were immortal. Heroes also played an important role in Greek mythology, and stories about them conveyed serious themes. The Greeks considered human heroes from the past closer to themselves than were the immortal gods. Most creation stories assume the eternity of matter or even of the world itself. However, these myths hold that the world in its precreation state was uninhabitable and must be organized either by the action of cosmic forces or by creator deities.

Related essays:

Homer’s Iliad essay
Hinduism And Hindu Gods essay
Relationship between religion and reality essay
Climate Change essay

Certain images of the primal, or precreation, state of the universe are common to a number of mythological traditions. Some myths represent the primal state as a void. Others depict it as a chaos of indistinct elements. Still others present it as a primeval sea, or as a cosmic egg containing all things in embryonic form. Some creation myths reflect the environmental circumstances of a particular culture. For example, in Mesopotamia, located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, a dependence on irrigation systems, and the perpetual threat of flooding were a pervasive feature of life.

Accordingly, the action and control of the waters played a major role in the mythology of Sumer, an early Mesopotamian civilization. In Sumerian mythology, the primeval sea, personified by the goddess Nammu, is the source of the gods and of the cosmos. When the gods decide to destroy their human creations, they do so by sending a flood (Ancient Middle Eastern Religions; Deluge) Many mythological accounts ascribe creation to impersonal agents rather than to individual deities.

In some African traditions, a cosmic egg hatched to release spirits called Nommo, who then set about the creation of humankind. In Egyptian mythology, both personal and impersonal creative forces came into play: four divine couples who fused to form the cosmic egg, from which the sun god was born, personified Elemental energies. In later Egyptian mythology, the sun god became identified with the figure of Ra, a deity who gave rise to a pantheon of high gods (known as the Nine Gods of Heliopolis) through self-fertilization (Egyptian Mythology).

Many mythologies include similar stories of self-fertilization by a creator deity, whose offspring then give birth to other gods, creating a pantheon based on incestuous family relationships. The most famous such line of descent occurs in Greek mythology, in which Zeus begets offspring by many goddesses and mortals. The Greek mythologies served several purposes. First, Greek myths explained the world. Second, they acted as a means of exploration. Third, they provided authority and legitimacy. Finally, they provided entertainment.

Greek myths lent structure and order to the world and explained how the current state of things had originated. Hesiod’s Theogony narrated the development of the present order of the universe by relating it to chaos, the origin of all things. A complex process of violence, struggle, and sexual attraction eventually took the regime led by Zeus taken over (Hamilton 1942, 1998: 246-298). Another poem by Hesiod, Works and Days, explained why the world is full of trouble. According to the poem the first woman, Pandora, opened a jar whose lid she had been forbidden to lift.

As a result of her disobedience all the diseases and miseries previously confined in the jar escaped into the world. Such a myth also makes a statement about the relationship between the sexes in Hesiod’s own world. Scholars assume that he composed the poem for a largely male audience that was receptive to a tale that put women at the root of all evil. One of the commonest types of explanation given in myths relates to ritual. Myths helped worshippers make sense of a religious practice by telling how the practice originated.

A prime example is sacrifice, a ritual that involved killing a domesticated animal as an offering to the gods. The ceremony culminated in the butchering, cooking, and sharing of the meat of the victim. Hesiod recounts the myth associated with this rite. According to this myth, the tricky Titan Prometheus tried to outwit Zeus by offering him a cunningly devised choice of meals. Zeus could have either an apparently unappetizing dish—an ox paunch, which had tasty meat concealed within—or a seemingly delicious one, gleaming fat on the outside, which had nothing but bones hidden beneath.

Zeus chose the second dish, and ever since human beings have kept the tastiest part of every sacrifice for themselves, leaving the gods nothing but the savor of the rising smoke. Myths also had the function of legitimation. A claim, an action, or a relationship acquired extra authority if it had a precedent in myth. Aristocratic Greek families liked to trace their ancestry back to the heroes or gods of mythology. Many songs have been written in praise of current victors in the Olympian Games by linking them with the deeds of their mythical ancestors.

Scholars can demonstrate influence on Greek mythology from the Middle East much more reliably than influence from Crete. Greek mythology owed much to cultures in Mesopotamia and Anatolia, especially in the realm of cosmogony (origin of the universe) and theogony (origin of the gods). To take one example, a clear parallel exists in an early Middle Eastern myth about the castration of Uranus by his son Cronus and the subsequent overthrow of Cronus by his son Zeus. The Middle Eastern myth tells of the god Anu who was castrated by Kumarbi, father of the gods.

The weather and storm god Teshub, in turn, displaced Anu. Scholars continue to bring to light more and more similarities between Greek and Middle Eastern mythologies . Mythology formed a central reference point in Greek society because it was interwoven with ritual and other aspects of social existence (Avery 1970: 201-203). Yet the question of how far people believed the myths is a difficult and probably unanswerable one. Some intellectuals, such as Greek writer Palaephatus, tried to interpret the myths as having figurative (nonliteral) meanings.

Writing in the 4th century BC, Palaephatus interpreted the stories of Diomedes, a king devoured by his own mares, and of Actaeon, a hunter torn apart by his own hounds, as concealing perfectly credible accounts of young men who had spent too much money on their animals and so been figuratively eaten alive by debt. Other thinkers, such as the 4th-century-BC philosopher Plato, objected to some myths on moral grounds, particularly to myths that told of crimes committed by the gods. Yet such skepticism seems hardly to have altered the imaginative power and persistence of Greek myths.

As late as the 2nd century AD, the Greek traveler and historian Pausanias described the myths and cults in the places he visited as if they constituted a still-living complex of religious discourse and behavior. Cosmogonic myths generally culminate in the creation of humankind (Rees 2001: 34-47), after which the mythic cosmos comes to resemble the world of human experience. In mythic history, the earliest era of the world is usually the closest to perfection—a Golden Age or Garden of Eden—with later phases showing the progressive degeneration of the world as it grows more distant from the original creative impulse.

The earliest humans are often thought to have been of extraordinary stature and longevity and to have been much closer to the gods than are the humans of the present day. In many traditions, the story cycles associated with demigods and heroes are an even richer source of myth than those involving the gods themselves. Such myths enable the listener to recall the time of creation when the world was in its infancy.

In summary, the patterns in Greek and Mesopotamian mythology are both cultural and universal as stated above, since all the myths of different cultures in the world have similarities.

REFERENCES:

Avery, C. 1970. ‘The New Century Handbook of Greek Mythology and Legend’. 201-203 Hamilton, E. 1942, 1998. ‘Mythology’. 246-298 Malam, J. 2000. ‘Ancient Greece: Gods and Goddesses’. 49-72 Gribbin, R. 2001. ‘Hyperspace: The Universe and its Mysteries’. 03-41 Rees, M. 2001. ‘Our Comic Habit’. 34-47 Kallen, S. 1997. ‘Exploring the Origins of the Universe’. 107-118 .

I Am Building an Archive to Prove That Palestine Exists

For me and my family, this work is an act of hope.

collage of historical images of palestine

Listen to this article

Produced by ElevenLabs and News Over Audio (NOA) using AI narration.

M y father collects 100-year-old magazines about Palestine— Life , National Geographic , even The Illustrated London News , the world’s first graphic weekly news magazine. For years, he would talk about these mysterious documents but rarely show them to anyone. “I have proof,” he would say, “that Palestine exists.”

His father, my paternal grandfather, whom I called Siddi, had a similar compulsion to prove his heritage, though it manifested differently. Siddi used to randomly recite his family tree to my father when he was a child. As if answering a question that had not been asked, he would recount those who came before him: “First there was Hassan,” he would say in his thick Arabic accent, “and then there was Simri.” Following fathers and sons down the line of paternity, in a rhythm much like that of a prayer, he told the story of 11 generations. Every generation until my father’s was born and raised in Ramallah, Palestine.

After 1948 , however, almost our entire family in Ramallah moved to the San Francisco Bay Area. Although my American-born father didn’t inherit Siddi’s habit of reciting his family tree, he did recite facts; he lectured me about Palestine ad nauseam in my youth, although he had not yet visited. Similar to his father’s, these speeches were unprompted. “Your Siddi only had one business partner his entire life,” he would say for the hundredth time. “And that business partner was a rabbi. Palestinians are getting pitted against the Jews because it’s convenient, but it’s not the truth.”

His lectures were tedious, repetitive, and often fueled with so much passion that they overwhelmed me into silence. And yet they took up permanent residence in my brain, and I would reach for them when pressed to give political opinions after new acquaintances found out I was Palestinian. “So what do the Palestinians even want?” a co-worker’s husband once asked me as we waited in line for the bar at my company’s holiday party. I said what I imagined my father would have said in the face of such dismissiveness: “The right to live on their land in peace.”

But sometime after the luster of young adulthood wore off, I found my piecemeal understanding of Palestinian history—what I’d gleaned from passively listening to my father—no longer sufficient when navigating these conversations. When a man I was on a date with learned where my olive skin and dark hair came from, he told me that Palestinians “were invented,” even though I was sitting right in front of him, sharing a bowl of guacamole. I left furious, mostly at myself. I had nothing thoughtful to say to prove otherwise.

Like my father, I started collecting my own box of scraps about Palestine, although I couldn’t have said why. Perhaps I wanted to slice through a conversation just as others had sliced through my existence, but not even this was clear to me yet. Magazines, books, old posters, and stickers found a home in a corner of my bedroom. My collecting was an obsession. I’d buy books by Edward Said, Mahmoud Darwish, and Mourid Barghouti, not necessarily because I knew who these men were at the time, but because the word Palestine was right there, embossed on the cover.

At first I didn’t dare open these books. They became an homage to my identity that I both eagerly honored and wanted to ignore. My eventual engagement with the material was slow, deliberate. I wanted to preserve a semblance of ease that I feared I would lose once I learned more about my people’s history. I bookmarked articles on Palestine in my browser, creating a haphazard folder of links that included infographics on Palestine’s olive-oil industry, news clippings about the latest Israeli laws that discriminated against Palestinians, and articles on JSTOR with provocative titles like “Myths About Palestinians.” I was building an archive as if I were putting together an earthquake kit—like the ones my parents kept in our basement in San Francisco—even though I didn’t know when this particular survival kit would be useful or necessary.

But my father knew. His father knew. Our liberation may eventually hang on these various archives.

Even more true: These archives validate Palestinians’ existence.

I n the 19th century , before a wave of European Jews settled in Palestine following the Holocaust, early Zionists leaned on the mythology that the land was empty and barren. The movement advocated for the return of Jews to their ancestral homeland. In 1901, the Zionist author Israel Zangwill wrote in the British monthly periodical The New Liberal Review that Palestine was “a country without people; the Jews are a people without a country.”

In 1969, Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir was quoted in The Sunday Times of London: “[There is] no such thing as Palestinians … It was not as though there was a Palestinian people in Palestine considering itself as a Palestinian people and we came and threw them out and took their country away from them. They did not exist.” This idea has been similarly reused for more than a century, evolving very little. As recently as February 2024, Israeli Minister of Settlement and National Missions Orit Strock repeated the sentiment during a meeting of Israel’s Parliament, saying , “There is no such thing as a Palestinian people.”

But this fiction of Palestinians’ nonexistence feels tired. It’s a distraction that not only invalidates us but also places Palestinians on the defensive while Israel’s government builds walls and expands illegal settlements that separate Israelis from their very real Palestinian neighbors.

It feels especially absurd in the face of Israel’s latest military campaign in Gaza, launched in response to Hamas’s attacks on October 7. Since then, Israeli strikes have killed more than 34,000 people , according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, although that number is incomplete . It does not include all of the civilians who have died from hunger, disease, or lack of medical treatment. If Palestinians don’t exist, then who is dying? I fear that Strock’s words may become true, that Palestinians soon will not exist, that slowly they will become extinct. It’s a cruel self-fulfilling prophecy—claim that Palestinians were never there, and do away with them when they continue to prove otherwise.

While listening to my father’s monologues, I used to think about how exhausting it must be for him to keep reminding himself that the place where his father was born is real. At the time, I didn’t think about my place in this heartbreak. But I can’t ignore that heartbreak any longer.

Since October, I’ve returned to my own little box on Palestine. I used to think that this haphazard archive lacked direction, but I see it differently now. This collection proves to me that the place where my great-grandfather owned orchards and grew oranges was real, that the land Siddi was forced to leave behind was a blooming desert before others claimed its harvest. It’s also a catalog of my own awakening, a coming to terms with a history that I didn’t want to know. My ignorance is shattered over and over again when I look through this box and think about all that we are losing today.

Gaza is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in the world; some of its monuments date back to Byzantine, Greek, and Islamic times. Since the October 7 attacks, however, Israel’s air raids on Gaza have demolished or damaged roughly 200 historical sites, including libraries , hundreds of mosques , a harbor dating back to 800 B.C.E. , and one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world. In December, an Israeli strike destroyed the Omari Mosque, the oldest and largest mosque in Gaza City, which housed dozens of rare ancient manuscripts. Israeli strikes have endangered Gaza’s remaining Christian population, considered one of the oldest in the world, and have destroyed every university while killing more than 90 prominent academics .

The destruction of cultural heritage is not new in the history of war. Perhaps that’s why when my father came across a tattered hardcover titled Village Life in Palestine , a detailed account of life in the Holy Land in the late 1800s, in a used-book store in Cork, Ireland, he immediately purchased it. He knew that books like these were sacred artifacts that hold a truth—a proof of existence outside political narratives. My father’s copy was printed by the London publishing company Longmans, Green, and Co. in 1905. The first few pages of the book contain a library record and a stamp that reads CANCELLED . Below is another stamp with the date: March 9, 1948. I’m not sure if that date—mere months before the creation of Israel—signifies when it was pulled out of circulation, or the last time it was checked out. But the word cancelled feels purposeful. It feels like another act of erasure, a link between my father’s collection and the growing list of historical sites in Gaza now destroyed. We are losing our history and, with that, the very record of those who came before us.

A fter I started my own collection on Palestine, my father entrusted me with some of his scanned copies of Life that mention Palestine. He waited to show them to me, as if passing on an heirloom. Perhaps he wanted to be sure I was ready or that I could do something with them. One of the magazines dates back to May 10, 1948, four days before the creation of Israel. There’s a headline that reads, “The Captured Port of Haifa Is Key to the Jews’ Strategy.” The author goes on to write that the port “improved Jews’ strategic position in Palestine. It gave them complete control of a long coastal strip south to Tel Aviv … They could look forward to shipments of heavy military equipment from their busy supporters abroad.” Right next to this text is a picture of Palestinian refugees with the caption “Arab Refugees, crammed aboard a British lighter in the harbor at Haifa, wait to be ferried across the bay to the Arab-held city of Acre. They were permitted to take what possessions they could but were stripped of all weapons.”

I can’t help but feel the echo of this history today. I think about President Joe Biden’s plans to build a temporary port in Gaza to allow humanitarian aid in, even though about 7,000 aid trucks stand ready in Egypt’s North Sinai province. Back in October, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared to welcome the idea of letting help arrive by sea,which at first confused me because not only has he denied that Palestinians are starving, but his government has also been accused by the United Nations and other humanitarian groups of blocking aid trucks from entering Gaza (a claim that Israel denies). Nevertheless, the historical echo seems quite clear to me now as I look through my father’s magazine and see refugees leaving by port 75 years earlier.

I believe my father didn’t want to be alone in his recordkeeping. Who would? It’s endlessly depressing to have to write yourself and your people into existence. But writing about Palestine no longer feels like a choice. It feels like a compulsion. It’s the same drive that I imagine led Siddi to recite his family tree over and over, a self-preservation method that reminded him, just as much as it reminded his young son, of where they came from. It’s the same compulsion that inspires my father to collect the rubble of history and build a library from it.

This impulse is reactive, yes, a response to the repeated denial of Palestine’s existence, but it’s also an act of faith—faith that one day all of this work will be useful, will finally be put on display as part of a new archive that corrects a systematically denied history. Sometimes I hear my father say that his magazines and books will one day be in a museum about Palestine.

“Your brother will open one, and these will be there,” he muses to himself.

Just as the compulsion to archive is contagious, so is hope. Since I’ve started publishing articles and essays about Palestine, I’ve had close and distant relatives reach out to me and offer to share pieces from their own collections.

They ship me large boxes of books and newspapers, packed up from the recesses of their parents’ homes. “Can you do something with these?” they ask. My answer is always yes. I’m realizing that this archiving is not only work I have to do, but something I get to do.

In the middle of the night, my father sends me subjectless emails with links to articles or scanned copies of magazines about Palestine that he’s been waiting to show to someone, anyone, who will care. I save each email in a folder in my Gmail account labeled “Palestine”—a digital version of the box in my bedroom, an archive that I return to whenever I feel despair.

“It’s all here,” my father writes. “We existed. We were there.”

IMAGES

Greek Mythology essay example
The Ancient Greek Social Structure and Mythology (Essay)
Greek Mythology Essay 3 by Megan Altman
Greek Mythology essay example (500 Words)
Thematic Essay about Greek Mythology
195 Impressive Greek Mythology Essay Topics

VIDEO

My First Greek Book App Vol II
The Greek Mythology explained
Learning to read and write Greek mythology as a beginner
The new topic of Greek mythology! #fortnite
Greek Mythology (CLASS 2604)
Readings in Cultures "Greek Mythology": Exam 01 امتـحـان مـع التـصـحـيـح -- أسـئـلـة مـبـاشـرة

COMMENTS

122 Greek Mythology Essay Topics to Write about & Samples
Love Story of Orpheus and Eurydice. Hades, Persephone, and the Afterlife. The Twelve Olympian Gods and Their Roles. Athena vs. Poseidon: The Contest for Athens. Infidelity and Betrayal in Greek Mythology. The Labors of Heracles and Divine Punishment. The Myth of Narcissus and the Narcissistic Personality.
How to Write a Greek Mythology Essay
Writing a Greek mythology essay provides the perfect opportunity to delve into this engrossing subject and showcase your knowledge and analytical skills. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the key components of a successful Greek mythology essay and provide valuable tips and insights to help you craft an outstanding piece of academic ...
Greek Mythology Essay Topics: Gods, Heroes, and Legends
Tips on Writing an Informative Essay on a Greek Mythical Character. Crafting an informative essay on a Greek mythical character requires a blend of passionate storytelling, rigorous research, and insightful analysis. Yet, there are some tips you can follow to reach the best result. Read this student essay written about the Greek mythology guide.
How to Write a Greek Mythology Essay
The Titans, led by Cronos, overthrew the Sky Father, Uranos, and cast him aside, becoming the rulers of the new world. Cronos then married his older sister Rhea, and together, they bore six children - Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, Hera, Demeter, and Hestia. These six were the first generation of Olympians, the Greek gods as we know them.
Guide on How to Write a Greek Mythology Essay
Step #1. Choose your topic. Every essay begins with a topic. That's why the first step in writing a Greek mythology essay is to select a topic. Try to mention the following factors at this stage: how much information you know about it; are you able to use enough sources in writing;
Greek Mythology Critical Essays
Nilsson contends that while divinity myths may indeed have "pre-Greek" origins, the heroic myth cycles as found in Greek epics can be dated back to the epoch known as the Mycenaean Age (1950 to ...
Greek Gods Mythology: [Essay Example], 525 words GradesFixer
The Greek gods and goddesses were believed to reside on Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Greece. According to mythology, the gods were the offspring of the primordial deities, Gaia (Earth) and Uranus (Sky). The most powerful of the gods was Zeus, the ruler of the heavens and the god of thunder. Other prominent deities included Hera, Zeus's ...
Greek Mythology: Gods, Goddesses & Legends
Hera (Juno): the queen of the gods and goddess of women and marriage. Aphrodite (Venus): goddess of beauty and love. Apollo (Apollo): god of prophesy, music and poetry and knowledge. Ares (Mars ...
The Greek Creation of Greek Mythology
Essay Example: Amidst the intricate tapestry of ancient Greek mythology, the narrative of the Greek creation myth unfolds, presenting a captivating tale that elucidates the genesis of the cosmos and the deities that inhabit it. In stark contrast to the singular, all-powerful deity of monotheistic
Mythology: Sample A+ Essay
Sample A+ Essay. Choose one myth and explore the relationships between its male and female characters. What broader arguments might be drawn from these examples? "The Adventures of Aeneas" is mainly concerned with its titular male hero, the Trojan founder of Rome. However, the tale also features several women in key supporting roles, such ...
Mythology: Suggested Essay Topics
Suggested Essay Topics. Previous. 1. In terms of the myths as a whole, what is unusual about Hercules' character? How does he maintain his heroic stature after committing so many crimes? 2. Discuss the role of women in these myths. Do these stories offer one cohesive vision of the role of women in Greek society? 3.
10 Writing Prompts from Greek Mythology
The Greeks had some pretty amazing stories. Even Shakespeare was influenced by Greek mythology. Romeo and Juliet is an adaptation (of an adaptation) of the myth of Pyramus and Thisbe. Using a myth as a starting point helps to give you a basic outline so you can focus on adding details and developing characters.
Essay on Mythology
Students are often asked to write an essay on Mythology in their schools and colleges. And if you're also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic. ... For example, Greek mythology talks about Zeus and his family of gods. Norse mythology includes Thor and Odin, and Egyptian mythology has gods ...
Greek Mythology Essay Topics You'll Enjoy Writing
The Concept of Heroism in Homer's "Iliad". The Representation of Women in Greek Myths. The Transformation of Characters in Ovid's "Metamorphoses". The Significance of Prophecy in Greek Mythology. The Myth of Prometheus: The Titan as a Symbol of Rebellion. The Dichotomy of Love and Hate in the Story of Eros and Psyche.
Greek Mythology Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas
Women in Greek Mythology. Words: 1925 Pages: 6 5693. Aphrodite, Artemis, Sappho, Persephone, Medusa, and Helen of Troy. These are only a few examples of the notorious female figures that were once established in ancient Greece. When I was in elementary school, my friends and I were obsessed with Greek mythology.
How to Write a Myth: 13 Steps (with Pictures)
5. Continue the story. The middle of the myth is up to you, and there are no rules you have to follow. Keep writing the story, keeping in mind the phenomenon or moral lesson you're trying to explain. If you get stuck, move the story along with one of the following: [6] Introduce a new character.
Greek Mythology Essay
Poseidon is the god of the god of the sea and oceans and controls all of the water. Scylla is a 6 dog headed sea nymph that lives on a island and controls all of the rock of the Island. Mt. Olympus is the home of the gods. Poseidon, Scylla, and Mt. Olympus are important in greek mythology because they give reason to all things. 898 Words. 4 Pages.
Greek Mythology Essay Examples
Stuck on your essay? Browse essays about Greek Mythology and find inspiration. Learn by example and become a better writer with Kibin's suite of essay help services.
Greek Mythology essay Essay
Greek Mythology is a set of diverse traditional tales told by the ancient Greeks about the exploits of gods and heroes and their relations with ordinary mortals. The ancient Greeks worshipped many gods within a culture that tolerated diversity. Cosmogony is the study of the universe. Creation mythologies explain the actual formation of the ...
Researching and Writing about a Mythical Character Quiz
Dana receives the writing prompt below. Write an informative essay about the first woman in Greek mythology, Pandora. Summarize her myth and explain the impact of her story on today's culture. Dana's first research question is "What events occurred in the myth of Pandora?"
I Am Building an Archive to Prove That Palestine Exists
A fter I started my own collection on Palestine, my father entrusted me with some of his scanned copies of Life that mention Palestine. He waited to show them to me, as if passing on an heirloom ...