Course Syllabus

Demystifying Greek Mythology: From Myths to Modern-Day Narratives

If you've ever stumbled across a reference to Athena, been intrigued by the story of Hercules, or pondered about the Trojan War, and thought, "Why does this sound unfamiliar?" you're not alone. While the tales of Greek mythology have stood the test of time, spanning millennia and cultures, the formal teaching of these captivating stories has dwindled in contemporary curricula. However, their impact on modern culture, from literature to art and even pop culture, is undeniable.

Why Greek Mythology?

Greek mythology offers more than just stories. It's a mirror reflecting ancient Greek civilization's beliefs, traditions, fears, aspirations, and cultural norms. At its core, these myths were their way of understanding the universe, nature, relationships, and more. It encompasses everything from the origin of the universe and divine tales of gods and goddesses to stories of love, sacrifice, bravery, deceit, and the human condition.

Today, we witness traces of these myths everywhere: in literature, movies, brand names, and even idioms. They're sewn into the very fabric of our daily lives. Remember saying "open Pandora's box" or calling someone's weak spot their "Achilles' heel"? These expressions have their roots in Greek myths.

Course Outline:

1. Introduction to Greek Mythology (Lesson 1): Dive into the mesmerizing world of myths. Discover the origins, significance, and the various forms these stories have taken over the centuries. Did you know many of our star constellations are named after Greek myths? For instance, Orion's Belt originates from the story of Orion, a giant hunter.

2. In The Beginning (Lesson 2): Start at the very inception. How did the Greeks explain the origin of the world, gods, and humanity? Delve into primordial deities like Gaia and Uranus and the early tales that set the stage for everything to come.

3. The Gods and Early Heroes in Mythology (Lesson 3): Ascend Mount Olympus and meet the pantheon of gods and goddesses. From Zeus's thunderbolts to Athena's wisdom, familiarize yourself with their tales and their roles in shaping Greek culture. Dive into the stories of early heroes who set standards for bravery and virtue.

4. The Great Heroes during the Trojan War (Lesson 4): The Trojan War, a monumental event in mythology, featured heroes like Achilles and Hector. Unpack the intricate details of this decade-long war and its impact on subsequent literature, including Homer's "Iliad."

5. Stories of Love in Mythology (Lesson 5): Greek myths are rich with tales of love, both uplifting and tragic. From the undying love of Orpheus and Eurydice to the tumultuous relationship between Zeus and Hera, explore love's multifaceted representation.

6. Famous Greek Mythology Families and Their Cities (Lesson 6): Beyond individuals, Greek myths also focus on illustrious families like the house of Atreus and cities such as Athens. Understand the significance of these dynasties and how their legacies played pivotal roles in Greek history.

7. More Myths from Greek Mythology (Lesson 7): As we progress, there's a treasure trove of myths waiting to be unraveled. Whether it's tales of heroism, treachery, or magic, every story offers a window into ancient Greece's soul.

Why Choose This Course?

Whether you're seeking to satiate your curiosity, reconnect with tales you've heard in passing, or wish to understand the influence of Greek myths on today's narratives, this course promises a riveting journey. It's more than just stories; it's about understanding our shared human legacy through the lens of ancient Greece. Dive in and let these age-old tales resonate with you in ways you've never imagined!