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Greek Mythology Research Paper

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Myth has been defined and manipulated throughout its usage in order to fit the desired criteria for explaining a multitude of phenomena. The usage of the word myth has steadily increased in the English language, applying to an increasing number of circumstances. Today, there exist programs such as MythBusters, where a group of hosts test classic wives’ tales and conundrums, while classifying them as myth. Quite obviously, these common misconceptions and questions do not fit the format and definition of a myth as it has been derived from the Greek mythos. Myth has come to be defined as a misconception, a distilled version of the term’s former significance. It must now be proposed that myth shall be redefined in order to provide a balance …show more content…

Such a question has sparked much debate, comparing the ancient myths of gods and goddesses to subordinate ideas of bigfoot and superstition. However, there do exist modern myths that still maintain a connotation of the supernatural, along with a difficult moral lesson. Examples include El Chupacabra, a creature that is often recognized as demonic, preying upon the livestock of immoral farmers throughout Central America. The issue with the definition, then, becomes the formal background of a traditional story, as well as the characters within the story, as many modern myths lack such a structured background. A large number of myths are not capable of fulfilling all of the characteristics of the archaic definition, and require …show more content…

The ethos commonly known as the ‘American Dream’ can be classified as a modern myth. Not only does it express a form of ideals, but it also inherits a degree of uncertainty, as there is no guarantee, traditional tale, or proven truth behind the concept. The American Dream also lacks characters and supernatural connection. However, it, for many entrepreneurs, immigrants, and patriots, sets in place a strong background of ideals in order to reach a certain glorified position according to particular subsets of society. Therefore, the definition of myth must be shifted towards the definition of ethos and pathos. These Greek terms constitute ethical and emotional appeal, convincing a person to act/perform in a certain fashion. Although all of those words partially fit the interpretation of the American Dream, myth is the only term that signifies a collective cultural importance. In order to entirely redirect the definition of myth, it must jettison the typical historical aspects, and embrace the conditions of emotion and

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