1. General human struggles
Humans have always loved telling stories. The adventures of gods and goddesses captured people’s imagination that they have been told and retold for thousands of years. The tales help us understand our own world more deeply.
You can teach good behavior and moral thinking to children through the tales of Greek mythology.
Achilles was all-powerful except in his heel. The story tells us that even a small or seemingly insignificant flaw can prove fatal and stop us from achieving our goals. Similarly, the myth of Hercules reveals the value of loyalty, strength of character and honor.
Hector, the son of Troy, is forced to fight Achilles and runs for his life, only to return later and fight the battle to the finish. The tale embodies the importance of overcoming your fears and facing challenges. The legend of Odysseus is about how you can triumph over obstacles and use perseverance to achieve your goals.
The story of Theseus and the Minotaur teaches us to stop, pause and reflect even when we’re under stress. After all, Theseus forgets to put up his white sails after his victory over the Minotaur and King Aegeus falls to his death before learning of his son’s return
Greek mythology is as fascinating now as it was thousands of years ago. However, they are much more than simply a collection of enchanting tales. Most of them are about problems of human existence.
2. Western civilization and Greek Mythology
It is more than 2000 years since the time of the Ancient Greeks, but Greek Mythology continues to have an influence on how we live today in western society.
References to Greek Mythology can still be found in our discussions about science, arts and literature, language, names and brands. Thinkers from Ancient Greece also laid the foundations for many areas of study including astrology, mathematics, biology, engineering, medicine or linguistics.
When the Europeans started to colonize the world, they brought with them the myth and legends of the Greek culture. This is how, in Peru, for example, the population knows and embraces the Greek stories and myths. The Spanish colonization impose the culture in Peruvian society. The same happened in many other countries in the Americas, in Australia, some African and Asian countries.
Perseus beheaded the Gorgon Medusa using the reflection in his shield, and saved Andromeda from the sea monster Cetus. Perseus showed Cetus the head of Medusa and turned him into stone, releasing Andromeda. Big brain!
Jason is the Greek legendary hero best known for his leadership of the Argonauts in the quest for the Golden Fleece.
3. Greek Heroes
Greek Myths are also of humans who complete unbelievable challenges. Who doesn’t like heroes?!
Heracles is the most known hero of the Greek Mythology because of his famous 12 labors. He was a human who managed to become a god. Every human’s dream! Also he had to be courageous and face his fears. Heracles didn’t become a hero just because of his strength, he was loyal, honorable, and honest. These qualities are why we still tell his stories today.
