Directions

Part 1

Interpret at least ONE of the above assigned myth.

Here is a process you can follow in order to do an effective interpretation:

• • Do a close reading of the myth
  • Annotate the myth even as you read, noting the elements (the symbols, the juxtapositions, the events, etc.)
  • Understand what is the larger purpose of the myth (for example, is the myth about a sociological function; is the myth paradigmatic for behaviors; is the myth about the relationship between man and divine? NOTE: Most myths address all these levels, but most myths will also have one function or purpose that over-arches)
  • One you have understood the larger purpose, examine its various elements from that perspective. For example, examine what symbols it uses and why? What paradigmatic behaviors do its characters portray and why? Etc.
  • NOTE: you must necessarily see these elements in relation to the myth’s respective culture and explore how and why the elements of the myth are significant to that society and to the people of that society.

To develop your responses, also consider:

• The Introduction to each myth in your textbook
• The symbology of the myths
• The relationship of the myths to the mythology of the male divine in the male divine chapter of your textbook
• The layers of the myth onion
• Documents on how to interpret myth (Module 5)

Consider the following questions and suggestions to focus your interpretation:

1. The divine Word in Sumerian culture was Me (pronounced ‘may’), and it was believed that Enki’s Me evoked civilization. This myth about Enki and Ninhursanga appears to be about the relationship of the male and female divines and cosmology.
2. The Norse myth of Thor’s duel with Hrungir appears to be about father son relationships and honor?
3. In Hesiod’s myth of Prometheus, how does Prometheus cause a rift between man and divine? Does this rift empower man or reduce him?

Your responses should be:

• approximately 500-700 words
• supported with good examples from the myths
• supported with critical analysis of symbols represented in the myths
• supported with critical thought about what the elements of the myth tell us about the culture
• cited accurately according to MLA