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
Though the Epic had a very pessimistic outlook on life and deemed death to be very harsh, it reveals some of the earliest beliefs of the Egyptians and reasoning behind their culture (1, pp 4-11). In discussing the roles of myth, it is often mistaken that myths can be substituted for actual history. ------------------------------------------------------------------------**Bibliography**Bibliography1. One very good example of this is the great flood that occurred in ancient western civilization. All of this can be seen from a discussion between Hector, the Greek warrior, and his wife, who is holding Hector’s son. ” She goes on to say, “Pity me, please! Take your stand on the rampart here, before you orphan your son and make your wife a widow (1, p 33). These were studied in great detail even centuries after his death. In many of his writings gods are found interacting with the warriors. His writings give us significant insight in to the history, morals and values of the early Greeks. Readings in The Western Humanities. They signify what the Greeks stood for, and are the only true elements of that history which has survived the test of time (1, pp 28-41). Gilgamesh is found looking to gods several times for answers, and they are often held responsible for his journeys.
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Acceptance Essays
