In modern day terms a myth holds a negative connotation, however in the times of Ancient Greece myths told were largely believed. As with any other ancient culture the Greeks used mythology to explain the environment of which mankind lived, how the night changed from light to dark, the seasons and all other natural phenomena’s. Myths were also used to recount historical events so that people could connect with their ancestors, the wars they were in and the places they had been. Without widespread literacy skills the communication/ passing on of myths was done orally. With myths being told across a large period of time, myths became ever changing, oral bards were adapting myths to please audiences, sometimes incorporating local events to gain
…show more content…
A multitude of Gods were encompassed so that each represented an aspect of humanity; the most important were the 12 Olympian Gods Led by Zeus. The myths that were told explained the stories of the Gods, where mankind had originated from, what the after life was and provided advice on living a happy life. Ancient Greeks used this form of religious story-telling to justify why the culture did certain things, such as sacrificial animals. Mythology put emphasis on the weak nature of humans on the contrary to the almighty and terrifying powers of nature, they believed their Gods controlled all aspects of nature therefore acknowledging that their lives depended on the good will of the Gods. Majority of the time relationship between man and god was considered friendly, however it was believed that the Gods delivered extreme punishments to those who had shown unacceptable behaviour. Life revolved completely around the beliefs of these supernatural powers with worship temples built in dedication and festivities that were held to honour them. As the Ancient Greek society developed, so did the mythology, new philosophies that were being introduced and the influence of neighbouring countries led to a continuing alteration of Greek beliefs. Druing this time however main characteristics and ideas surrounding the Greek Gods and their legends remained
A multitude of Gods were encompassed so that each represented an aspect of humanity; the most important were the 12 Olympian Gods Led by Zeus. The myths that were told explained the stories of the Gods, where mankind had originated from, what the after life was and provided advice on living a happy life. Ancient Greeks used this form of religious story-telling to justify why the culture did certain things, such as sacrificial animals. Mythology put emphasis on the weak nature of humans on the contrary to the almighty and terrifying powers of nature, they believed their Gods controlled all aspects of nature therefore acknowledging that their lives depended on the good will of the Gods. Majority of the time relationship between man and god was considered friendly, however it was believed that the Gods delivered extreme punishments to those who had shown unacceptable behaviour. Life revolved completely around the beliefs of these supernatural powers with worship temples built in dedication and festivities that were held to honour them. As the Ancient Greek society developed, so did the mythology, new philosophies that were being introduced and the influence of neighbouring countries led to a continuing alteration of Greek beliefs. Druing this time however main characteristics and ideas surrounding the Greek Gods and their legends remained