Elements of Mythology and Theme

Fill in the blanks: A myth is a story of _______________ authorship, told ________________

• unknown, long ago

• official, during the middle ages

• important, in books

• confusing, to children

Myths were a way for people to explain the natural world such as

• revealing the common fears of mankind

• explain a natural or historical event

• explain the creation of the world

• teach a moral lesson

• all of these

A myth may include supernatural creatures such as

• gods

• goddesses

• monsters

• heroes

• aliens

The gods/goddesses have

• human emotions

• pets

• gardens

• mansions

The gods may appear as

• animals

• old person

• a spirit

• a dream

Myths may feature a metamorphosis. An example of a metamorphosis is

• a cloud produces rain

• a girl is changed into a flower

• a boy exercises to get muscles

• a woman has a baby

Themes should be universal. Which of these themes is universal

• Everyone joined in to help, and soon all the dishes were washed.

• When many people work together, the job is easier.

• There was too much work for one person, so they all gave up and went to bed.

A theme should be a statement. Which of these is a theme?

• the power of friendship

• the power of friendship and family

• A support system like friends and family can help you through hard times.

A theme should not be a cliche. Which of these theme statements is not a cliche?

• Friends are good.

• Friends are important.

• War is bad.

• Friends can help you overcome tragedy.

You can infer the theme of a story by examining all of these EXCEPT

• the title

• look at the setting

• consider the plot and conflict

• analyze the characters