Allusion in Mythology

Icarus: Theme and Allusions

By Jon Sullivan

Theme and Mythology

Many myths stood as lessons in Greek Culture

Icarus flew too close to the sun, but what does it represent?

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His father told him not too, and because he didn't listen, he didn't live long. The lesson is listen to your parents. ​​

In many ways Greek myths are like fables or fairy tales trying to teach people morals.​

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Icarus​

Multiple Choice

What is the definition of theme in literature?

• The memoir of a hermit crab.

• The underlying message in a narrative text.

• The overall direction of a birthday party.

• An extreme exaggeration.

The underlying message!

Theme in literature has nothing to do with parties, but you'd be shocked how often I get that answer on tests. Many stories have more than one underlying message and multiple themes can be chose from them.

Icarus

Theme

Multiple Choice

What was the overall lesson of the story of Icarus?

• Younger people should fly.

• Younger People should avoid Minotaurs

• Old People should let younger people be.

• Younger people should listen to their elders.

But that isn't it either, because when Icarus flew to high, it killed him. So while you should try things and go out on your own, listen to the advice your elders give you.

The idea of young people flying is not a negative one.....​

It is also not teaching old people to not advise young people​- because it was the younger person who failed and the older person was right.

Not minotaur related... while it is strongly suggested to stay away from minotaurs that is no the main theme of the text.​

Of course, younger people should listen to their elders.

Multiple Choice

What have we learned about ancient greek culture from the story of Icarus?

• They value the lessons of their elders.

• They value close friendship

• They value a hearty meal.

• They can build cool wings and stuff.

They value as a culture...

the idea of youth that listens to their elders.

Education grew and flourished during this era, so maybe it was a good idea.

Icarus

Today, we have allusions like "He flew too close to the sun" that are used to describe when someone bites off more than they can chew.​

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Icarus

Allusions to Icarus in modern society

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​Icarus has appeared in films, comics, books, games, and toys.

Open Ended

If you are watching a science fiction movie, and there is a spaceship named The Icarus. Do you think it is foreshadowing something positive or something negative for that ship later in the story. Is it a positive, because the ship has made it to space and therefore closer to the sun, or is the ship going to go too far and have conflict because of it? Explain your answer.