Greek mythology is the repertoire of myths and teachings that
originated in ancient Greece on a wide spectrum of topics like
their gods, heroes, the different ritual practices, the
phenomenon of nature, and the significance of their cult. These
myths and teachings come in the form of stories which have
been told and retold from one generation to another, and
today, these stories are popular among people around the
world.
Many stories which are considered to be a part of Greek
mythology today have had their roots in other cultures and
myths. While the Greek mythology is considered to be 2,500
years old, some stories that have originated in a different
culture may be more than 4,500 years old.
In addition to narratives, Greek myths are present in the form
of sculptures, paintings and other representational arts. Vase
paintings and votive gifts were the most common mediums of
showcasing such arts.
The most renowned literary source for Greek mythology has
been Homer's poems and epics. Other luminaries who are
known to have contributed to the Greek myths are Plutarch
and Pausanias.
Greek mythology has had a great impact on the culture, art
and literature of Greece. Whether it was ancient poets or
contemporary ones, Greek mythology has been the source of
inspiration of many luminaries in the literary world. Many
artists have been influenced by Greek mythology as well.
The Greeks and Romans believed the Greek mythology to be a
part of their history. They found pride in being able to trace
their descent to the families of one of the heroes or Gods.
There were very few who doubted or questioned the facts
behind these myths and teachings. This was before 5th
century BC when Homer's epos was considered to be the
basis of Greek acculturation. As philosophy and rationalism
replaced the myths, many began to criticize the mythological
genealogies.
Today, Greek mythology is an interesting topic which garners
attention from many curious minds, but most of it is taken
with a pinch of doubt and while we will still find Greek
mythology to be an influence on arts and literature, it is no
longer a way of life for the people as it once used to be.
