Mythology and Culture

Mythology, and more specifically the term myth, represents a common misconception in modern American society. This misconception has bred certain interchangeability with the term "lie," when the true, academic form of myth is quite different. It is these myths, steeped in every culture throughout history, that provide deeper meaning and understanding of our universe, world, society and people. By further breaking these narratives down into myths, legends, and folktales, the individual characteristics each define a different purpose. By understanding all of these genres both collectively and individually, it is possible to reflect on culture and the human consciousness.

Defining Myths

It is important to separate the generic form of myth with a more specific reference to a type of narrative, much like legends and folktales. Sometimes myths can reference all narratives and other times they can be a type of narrative themselves. Here, it will be defined as a specific genre along with legends and folktales.

Myth

A myth often refers to a sacred story told within a culture that defines it as factual. They represent ideas of cultural origins and philosophy (Rosenberg, 1997). There are many examples throughout history, many of which reside in contemporary society. One example of a myth is Christian creationism. The story of God creating the heavens and earth, as well as mankind, can be found in the bible (Genesis), contemporary films, art and many other places in popular culture. This narrative highlights God's creation of the universe in six days and his creation of the first man and woman, Adam and Eve (Creationism, 2008). This story falls under the myth genre because of the sacred context and exploration of the universe's origins. It attempts to explain the foundation of all things by defining an omnipotent creator. This explanation is held true many cultures in contemporary society.

Legend

A legend is also a narrative believed to have factual basis by the narrator and audience, but with a more specific focus. Legends generally center on a single character, often a hero or king. The story can be secular or sacred, but deals with a time and place more specific or recent than myths (Rosenberg, 1997). It is important to differentiate the subject of a legend from the legend itself. American society tells of the legend of John Henry. An example of a legend is not John himself but the story of Henry battling the steam drill. John Henry defeats the steam drill by crushing more rock, proving the will of man, only to die with hammer in hand (John Henry, 2008). This secular narrative can be classified as a legend, because the subject becomes a hero to the working class. He represents the struggle of man vs. machine in the early industrial era. He represents a culture that held a feat such as this, true in their hearts.

Folktale

Folktales represent narratives with a purely fictional basis, even to the narrator and audience. Though fictional, the elements of fantasy are used to as a metaphor to the thoughts of the culture from which it spawned (Rosenberg, 1997). They are also non-scared tales that have no specific connection to a time or place. To see examples of folktales, society needs to look no further than films, often children's films. Take, for example, the Disney production Aladdin. This is a well known folktale about a young man who discovers a lamp containing a magic genie willing to grant him three wishes. Contrary to earlier versions, the contemporary version has the main character recognize the evils of greed and make the morally correct choices (Vaughn, n.d.). Aladdin fits the folktale genre in its basis of pure fiction. The fantastical and magical elements offer the essence of a folktale. At the same time, many metaphors and cultural symbols can be drawn from such a tale. The narrative hints at man's nature of greed as well as desire for true love.

Arthurian Legend, a Personal Perspective

Perhaps one of my favorite mythological narratives surrounds the legend of King Arthur. There are so many tales involving Arthur, you could probably find one for each genre of myth. Still, as a child and now, the tale of the sword in the stone always grabbed my attention. The premise involves the death of an English King with no heir. A sword lies buried in a stone with the inscription that whoever can pull it out is the next king. This story tells of a young boy unknowingly destined for greatness. The plot follows the young squire Wart's (Arthur) relationship with mentor Merlin and their small adventures together. The climax occurs when Arthur, in search of a replacement sword for his knight, pulls the sword from the stone. After some deceit and discussion, he is named King. Below is a more in-depth synopsis of T.H. Whites first novel in the Once and Future King:

The Sword in the Stone Synopsis

This story has long been interesting to me because it is both entertaining and symbolic of the choices we make. To many Arthur, as a child, seems ignorant, but a better word to describe it is innocent. He represents a purity that is ultimately rewarded. He represents the idea that good shall overcome.

The story, The Sword in the Stone, reflects a work which falls under the genre of a legend. While the main character is young, the focus is on his heroic nature and magnificent feat (pulling the sword). The story alludes to a specific place - England and time - medieval. It is through the actions and choices of Arthur that a culture can make assessments of the actions and choices of its people. And those assessments lead us to the principles of morality. Arthur's lack of corruption is why he is chosen to lead and eventually lead well. This is a pretty powerful, albeit idealistic, statement by the narrative. While there are elements of other genres (magic, divine power, etc), the overwhelming focus of this tale makes it a legend.

The legend of Arthur and the sword in the stone remains one of the most significant and long-lasting tales in mythology. So, what gives this legend such staying power? Much of this has to do with the universal principles Arthur's character symbolizes. In medieval times it was chivalry that Arthur radiated, a concept close to the hearts of that time's culture. In more recent times, a more apt description might include the term virtue. On the surface Arthur appears unready, but he in fact exudes strength. This is a quality our culture craves in its leaders as well as in individuals. The Sword in the Stone reminds me of the old adage, "do not judge a book by its cover." It is possible even the most unlikely members of society possess remarkable abilities. It is this hope, coupled with impeccable morality, that makes the character such an ideal role model for all. In the end, Arthur manages to bumble his way into teaching us all about the types of people we can and should be.

Conclusion

Looking back at the many myths cultures have spawned, provides an interesting glimpse into humanity of the past as well as interesting parallels to the present and future. The three genres in mythology: myths, legends and folktales provide unique purposes for cultures. Cultures use these narratives as gateways to deeper exploration and understanding. Tales like that of King Arthur provide us with measuring sticks of strength, morality and many other qualities we strive for. By continuing to examine these narratives, we promote the evolution of humanity.

References

CliffsNotes. (2005). About the Novel - A Brief Synopsis of The Sword in the Stone. Retrieved

March 8, 2008 from http://education.yahoo.com/homework_help/cliffsnotes/once_and_future_king/4.html

Creationism. (2008). In Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved March 9, 2008, from

Encyclopædia Britannica Online: http://www.search.eb.com/eb/article-9026809

John Henry. (2008). In Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved March 9, 2008, from

Encyclopædia Britannica Online: http://www.search.eb.com/eb/article-9043836

Rosenberg, D. (1997). Folklore, Myths, and Legends: A World Perspective. Chicago, IL: NTC

Publishing

Vaughn, M. (n.d.). Plot Summary for "Aladdin". Retrieved March 8, 2008 from

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0105935/plotsummary