World mythology

Your final paper assignment is made up of two shorter essay responses. Each response should be about 4 pages; please reference specific texts/authors and do not use outside sources. You do not need to cite page numbers. Due May 15 by the end of the day (I can extend to Saturday the 16th if you absolutely need the time].

1) This semester we have read many narratives coming from a broad array of cultural, historical, and geographical settings. What are two universal themes at play in world mythological cultures?  Describe these two themes and explain why they are important. Use at least four specific, concrete examples from two geographically distinct cultures [use Hindu & Norse; you can also refer to the Fisher King myth from Christianized Celtic culture].

[some suggestions of themes that appear in both Hindu & Norse culture: keeping promises/one’s word; the value of sacrifice & compassion vs the role of selfishness; abiding by accepted law (or Dharma); the nature of evil or monsters; illusion/deception/trickery & the need for wisdom & cleverness; the class structure of human society as emerging from gods or the original creation; how we face death, etc (there are many others). When you choose, think about how things like the creation stories or stories of destruction [of an age & family or of the world], or interactions between gods/heroes with enemies/monsters, or journeys where people must learn and be tested etc express general themes].

2) Analyze at least one way in which Norse myth is significantly different from Vedic/Hindu myth in its outlook on the world & consequent value system (this can either be a difference in values or a difference in which values are most important).Describe the differences briefly, use at least 2 concrete examples of things that happen, and explain how each myth displays a fundamental understanding & value system that impacts human life.

[some possibilities for this one: the nature of life (Yggdrasil & creation from the murdered giant vs emergence from a single unified mysterious divine source & the self-sacrifice of the first “man”); a historical vision of the world (it will be destroyed & ultimately renewed w Ragnarok, but for all but Baldur, death is real & the dead will remain dead) vs an ahistorical/cyclical view of the world (the world will be continually recreated over time, and death is an illusion); several of the ones above as well. You are free to choose whatever you want].

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