Mythology Discussion Questions

Course Targets: I will read and analyze a variety of short stories, non fiction, novels, technical
selections, and classical works of literary merit.

Characters
1. Compare and contrast the characters of Odysseus and Theseus. How do the aspects
of their heroism differ? How are they similar? What does this say about Greek
heroes?
2. Discuss the role of women in Greek myths. Do these stories offer one cohesive
vision of the role of women in Greek society?
3. Myths are full of instances of the cruelty of the gods. Giving multiple examples,
discuss the reasons for the gods’ cruelty. Is it always justified? What does the
cruelty of the gods say about the Greeks’ view of the universe?
4. Do you think Hades is evil? Why does he rarely leave his realm?
5. How do the myths differentiate between human and divine power?
6. Who would you rather be, Zeus or Poseidon?
7. Should the Titans be in Tartarus? Why or why not?

Heroism
1. Compare and contrast the visions of heroism in The Odyssey and “Sigurd the
Dragon Slayer.” What do these visions and ideas say about their differing cultures?
2. Do you agree with Joseph Campbell’s theory that dreams are our inner myths that
tell us the adventure of our inner consciousness?
3. Who might be a modern Theseus or Odysseus?
4. Do you think that Chivalry is the same or different than heroism? Why or why not?
5. Who is more heroic-Theseus or Sir Lancelot? Explain your answer.

Importance/Meaning of Myths
1. Discuss the ways in which these myths functioned as literature, science and religion.
2. What do a society’s myths do for it – why does a people generate the things we can
call myths and keep them circulating among themselves? Think of specific
examples.
3. How many myths relate to the individual? To larger communities? To the world
and overall operations? Can a myth have meaning at more than one level?
4. What do Greek myths suggest about tragedy?
5. What role does pride play in Greek mythology?
6. Why would anyone possibly believe the creation stories?
7. Can you relate mythology to everyday life?