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Four Myths: How The World And Mankind Were Created By Edith Hamilton

1042 Words5 Pages

Myths have existed throughout the history of man to convey important ideas and beliefs. While each myth may reflect the cultural values of its creators, common elements connect them across our history. In this essay, we will analyze four myths: "How the World and Mankind Were Created" by Edith Hamilton, The Book of Genesis chapters 1-3 and Revelation chapters 4-22 from the King James Bible, and The Younger Edda (Foreword, Chapters IV, V, XVI & XVII). By identifying shared themes, symbols, and tones within these myths, we gain insight into the universal human experiences they reflect and the values they convey.
The creation story is one of these myths' most apparent shared themes. Each text tells a different interpretation of how the world and …show more content…

From the God's epic struggle against the evil giants in The Younger Edda to the battle between good and evil in The Revelation of Saint John the Divine, these stories demonstrate the enduring conflict between the forces of good and evil. In the King James Bible, the story of Adam and Eve introduces sin and evil into the world, and in Chapters 4-22 of The Revelation of Saint John the Divine, the battle between God and Satan is shown in vivid detail. God comes out victorious by casting the devil into the lake of fire and brimstone. Furthermore, these myths approach related ideas in different ways. In "The Younger Edda," the creation story involves the sacrifice of Ymir, which sets an example of heroic sacrifice in Norse mythology. In "The Revelation of Saint John the Divine," the concept of judgment day serves as a warning to sinners and a promise of a better life to those who stay faithful to …show more content…

The King James Bible, for instance, has significantly influenced Christian values and beliefs. The idea of original sin, introduced in the story of Adam and Eve, has shaped Christian beliefs about humanity and the need for salvation. The Bible's teachings on love, forgiveness, and redemption have changed and influenced Christian values. Similarly, the Norse myths reflect the values and beliefs of the Viking culture, where bravery and strength were highly valued and respected. The Younger Edda depicts the Norse gods as mighty warriors, reflecting the Viking culture's emphasis on these virtues. It also emphasizes the importance of loyalty, honor, and hospitality, which were vital to the Vikings. These values were essential for individuals to become respected members of society and played an essential role in shaping the Viking culture's military power and success. These ancient tales reflect the beliefs and values of the cultures that originated them, and their impact continues to shape modern society and

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