Introduction to Greek Mythology

An abundance of stories developed in ancient Greece about gods, demigods, heroes, and other colorful figures, and have captured the imagination of people ever since. From ancient times to our days, attempts have been made to understand the meanings, sources and purpose of those stories, known as myths. Over the course, we will look at several gods and heroes and the myths associated with them. We will attempt to find out how they were created, what their roles were in the world, and what religious and cultural needs they were meant to meet. The myths will be explored in a historical and cultural context, and a discussion will follow of various issues emerging from them, such as the place of man in the universe, the relations between gods and humans, perceptions of life and death, fate and free choice, and the human psyche. We will see how diverse artistic expressions of myths fashioned and shaped the beliefs, customs and perceptions of ancient Greek society. Greek mythological stories have been repeatedly told over the generations and have served as the basis for remarkable interpretations at different times and places.