Mythology and Archetypes

Question 1

Myths

Answer 1

Tales and beliefs transmitted from generation to generation, or springing up as part of the popular mind in a current generation, many containing psychological truth or, at least, fulfilling a deep-rooted need, desire, or fear.

Question 2

Archetype

Answer 2

Is a model by which, through mythology, it becomes part of our subconscious and an addition to the way we organize our thinking about ourselves, human beings in general, and the nature of the universe.

Question 3

The hero

Answer 3

In Western mythology, the hero is the son of parents of the highest station. His conception takes place under difficulty. There is a portent in a dream or oracle connected with the child’s birth. The child is then sent away, or exposed to extreme danger. He is rescued by people of humble station, or by humble animals, and reared by them. When grown, he discovers his noble parentage after many adventures, and, overcoming all obstacles in his path, becomes at last recognized and attains fame and greatness as the hero.

Question 4

monomyth

Answer 4

The Irish novelist James Joyce used the term to convey his belief that the concept of archetypes the same everywhere.

Question 5

Everyday mythology can be seen in common sayings such as the following:

Answer 5

What goes around comes around.
It must be fate.
Us versus them.
Nice guys finish last.
All you need is love.
Just deserts.

Question 6

Some common archetypes include

Answer 6

• the circle
• the journey
• the garden
• the doomed family
• gods as larger-than-life models of human characteristics

Question 7

Common elements of the myths of childhood include the following:

Answer 7

• the need for reassurance
• gender roles, and the importance of being attractive and rich
• the importance of names
• the dark side

Question 8

Examples of Literary Archetypes:

Answer 8

The American Dream
Death (The Grim Reaper)
The Sacrificial Lamb
The Scapegoat
The Superhero
The Trojan Horse