God Myths, Research Paper Example

The Elements and Functions of God Myths

For centuries, myths have been passed down from generation to generation in an effort to reiterate the deeper meaning enclosed within the narrative. While the list of such stories is innumerable, the majority of myths share a multitude of common functions and elements which heavily contribute to such tales being classified as myths. More specifically, however, are god myths which have been recorded for at least 500 years and attempt to explain certain elements concerning life and nature (Elements of mythology, n.d.). Despite the multitude of god myths available, the parallels within each story become evident as such similarities are considered and evaluated.

First, god myths serve a plethora of functions ranging from providing an explanation into natural phenomena to attempting to guide people into performing certain actions. The function of god myths specifically is frequently created and verbalized to demonstrate how one should behave and function within society. Assuming the behavior of the god is replicated by the individual, the myth’s function of controlling one’s behavior has been achieved. Additionally, god myths possess the ability to instill fear and influence a person to act a certain way out of suspicion that failing to do so will result in a substandard afterlife. However, god myths do not serve the sole purpose of soliciting control. Myths may also be used to engage citizens into acquiring a deeper understanding of social structure and natural forces. To demonstrate, the concept of heaven is incorporated into myths to reverberate a specific culture’s lifestyle and culture (Elements of mythology, n.d.). Evidently, the functions of god myths are bounteous and diverse.

Moreover, not only are collective functions used in god myths, but common elements are seen, as well. As demonstrated by the myth concerning Apollo and the creation of the sun, myths were used to unravel the mystery of the universe. Similarly, the presence of gods and goddesses capable of expressing human emotions are oftentimes present in myths. For instance, the human emotion of jealousy was portrayed by the envious goddess Hera while another goddess, Demeter, expressed sorrow over her abducted daughter. Finally, it is common for a metamorphosis and magical events to transpire. To illustrate the element of magic, in one myth a full-size Athena was said to come out of the forehead of Zeus. Lastly, gods may also be disguised as seen by Zeus approaching Hera as an unfortunate bird in the midst of a storm (Williams, 2007). Clearly, the seven previously mentioned elements are seen with frequency in god myths.

Overall, despite the multitude of god myths available, the parallels within each story become evident as such similarities are considered and evaluated. It is apparent that the many functions of such myths have proven effective as centuries later the same myths are present in today’s society. The diversity present within each of the many myths provides evidence that each narrative does not serve the same function. Conversely, while the functions vary, the elements of god myths remain constant. With that said, god myths have been around for centuries and it is probable to assume that because of their historical significance and success they will remain memorable in the minds of many.

References

Elements of mythology. (n.d.). Wit Home Page Redirect. Retrieved June 19, 2010, from http://webinstituteforteachers.org/www4teach/98/teams/muses/plan.htm

Williams, E. (2007, October 23). The Odyssey: Writing a Myth. A Site for Teachers and Students of Language Arts and ESOL. Retrieved June 19, 2010, from http://www.sblair.com/odyssey/writing a myth.htm