College Myths

What are the themes of myths often connected to?

• Long, complicated stories

• Animals

• Magic

• Religious beliefs

Which of the following best defines a myth?

• a story that is made up and not to be believed at all.

• a traditional story, especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining some natural phenomenon, and typically involving supernatural beings or events.

• a movie that involves the retelling of true events.

• a story that has some supernatural elements, but does not explain a natural phenomenon.

True or false:

Two of the characteristics of myths generally include are aspects of nature, and gods/goddesses with supernatural abilities.

• true

• false

Is the following an example of a myth?

• myth

• not myth

Is the following an example of a myth?

A god wakes up early and is very angry. He stomps on the ground, but his supernatural strength causes the earth to shake. This is where earthquakes come from.

• myth

• not myth

Myths have all of the following characteristics except

• Feature gods or other supernatural beings who often show human characteristics like love or anger.

• Reveal the consequences of human errors

• Explain how something came to be

• Were passed down by scribes who carefully translated each story

What did the ancient Greeks value, based on their myths? (Hint: Pandora and Hercules).

• Physical attractiveness

• Being yourself

• Being brave

• Being strong, both mentally and physically

A story that was created to usually explain the mysteries of the universe and usually features gods and goddesses is called a _____.

• Myth

• Legend

• Tale

Which of the following is a common myth about college life?

• College is all about partying and having fun.

• College is only for the academically gifted.

• College guarantees a high-paying job after graduation.

• College is unnecessary in today's world.

What is the primary purpose of myths in literature?

• To entertain readers with fictional stories.

• To explain natural phenomena and cultural traditions.

• To provide factual historical accounts.

• To promote religious beliefs.