Mythology & Art Perspectives in Art Milito What is a myth? An invented story, idea, or concept, imaginary thing or person Examples: Thor, Zeus, Cupid, Aquaman
Features of Myths Often Contain Creatures Deities Demigods Fictional Uses Symbolism Traditional Narrative / Story Passed Down Teaches a Lesson / Moral of the
Story Explains Something Creation Afterlife Natural Phenomena Rituals & Practices What is a Legend? Exaggerated stories about real people, places, objects, & events Examples:
Headless Horseman, Robin Hood, Atlantis, Fountain of Youth, Shangri-La, etc. Features of Legends Mostly Realistic Often Contains: Based in truth & has some historical facts / elements to it Heroes & Villains
Exaggerated & distorted details & facts Miracles Real people, places & things A Warning or Reminder Myth or Legend? Bigfoot
Bigfoot (aka Sasquatch) Features: Background Info: Tall hairy creature Mainly around the American Pacific North West (elsewhere too)
Apelike humanoid Non-Aggressive Several unconfirmed sightings Other versions found in different cultures (Yeti) Myth or Legend? Tooth Fairy
Tooth Fairy Features: Background Info: Small fairy Either depicted as pretty or scary Sneaks into kids rooms while asleep Collects baby teeth in
exchange for money Tradition dates back to Norse culture Other nerby cultures believed in burning baby teeth to avoid an eternal afterlife searching for them Myth or Legend? Loch Ness Monster
Loch Ness Monster (aka Nessie) Features: Background Info: Dinosaur like creature Scottish legend Long neck, big body, &
flippers Lives in the waters of Loch Ness Shy & reclusive Many unconfirmed sightings Myth or Legend? Unicorn
Unicorns Features: Background Info: Horse body Long single horn on forehead Featured in Greek, Biblical, & European mythology
Usually white Symbol of purity & rarity Magical powers Fantasy Creature Benevolent creature Think of 3 Mythical /
Legendary Creatures of Your Own
