The Role of Myth in Western Civilization

A detailed Summary of The Role of Myth in Western Civilization

The Role of Myth in Western Civilization

Myth has played a very significant role in the development of western civilization. Through the development of myths mankind has been able to pass down from generation to generation the history and beliefs of early ancestors. Whether it was from the earliest known myths about King Gilgamesh, to the elaborate writings of Homer, myths have allowed for great advancement in western civilization.

Myths are the first elements of recorded history and the only real account that we have of early civilizations. One example of this is the infamous Epic of Gilgamesh, which is the first account of Sumerian myth that was recorded. It is very significant in that it shows us the beliefs and ideas about the early Sumerians. It discusses the first concept of life after death and the search for immortality. This is very apparent in an excerpt from the epic in which Gilgamesh’s brother dies and Gilgamesh is said to be roaming over the plains, during which he says, “How can I rest, how can I be at peace? Despair is in my heart. What my brother is now, that shall I be when I am dead. Because I am afraid of death I will go as best I can to find Utnapishtim whom they call the Faraway, for

In discussing the roles of myth, it is often mistaken that myths can be substituted for actual history. Though it is true that myth can describe certain events that may have happened in history, it is important to note that myths may not be direct accounts of what actually occurred. Historians have been able to identify through myths that certain events have occurred, especially when the events appear in several different cultures’ myths. One very good example of this is the great flood that occurred in ancient western civilization. This flood is mentioned in both the Old Testament of The Bible and in The Epic of Gilgamesh. When things of this nature are observed it is quite difficult to argue that these events did not take place. Even though these two sources have very different explanations of the flood, it is difficult to deny that this event actually occurred (1, pp 4-11, 118-121).

Another example of myth contributing a key role in the development of early western civilization is the writings of Homer. These were studied in great detail even centuries after his death. His writings give us significant insight in to the history, morals and values of the early Greeks. The Greek values and morals, such as heroism, pride, loyalty, and bravery played a crucial part in Greek civilization. This gives us a dramatic insight into what the early Greeks were like, and the lives they lived. With such a warrior society, they must put these values first and foremost in doing so they must also follow their fate. All of this can be seen from a discussion between Hector, the Greek warrior, and his wife, who is holding Hector’s son. Hector must go off and leave his fa

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Approximate Word count = 1141
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)

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