why do they teach greek mythology in schools?

Question

ive always wondered since i was a kid i thought school was about facts i dont understand that part of it

Answer 1

There is more to education than just facts.

The myths are a part of history. They explain how an earlier culture perceived the universe.

The Greek and Roman myths were early religion, part of early civilization's way to explain things they did not understand.

The stories behind the myths are echoed frequently in contemporary culture.

The myths provide a foundation for contemporary culture.

For example, the movie My Fair Lady is based on George Bernard Shaw's book Pygmalian, which is based on the myth of the sculptor Pygmalian who fell in love with a statue named Galatea which he carved. You could even interpret Pretty Women this way

Star wars can be interpreted with Luke as the mythological Orpheus who had a power of communication with people and animals (thru music, i believe) while the modern treatment is thre force.

Han is the Odysseus figure (Odysseus was known for his rough appearance but is a great tactician and leader) Etc.

Art is full of mythology.

If you're a cultured, educated person, you should be able to recognize the myths when you come across their contemporary reinterpretations.

Philosophically, the myths can be enlightening. Think about Moirai, the three fates. What kind of a culture would hold these to be true?

Klotho combs the wool and spins the thread of life.

Atropos weaves the thread into the fabric of one's actions.

Lachesis determines the length of the thread and thus the period of one's life.

Answer 2

Teaching Greek Mythology

Answer 3

I think it is because they are teaching you a technique of different story telling style, such as folk lore, fairy tales, non fiction and fiction, not everything you learn in school are facts, you also learn to have an open mind about other peoples beliefs,and how and why they believe them....Greek Mythology has been around for a very long time, pay attention,you will enjoy the adventure!

Answer 4

Because the educational system is totally Eurocentric. It also goes against the seperation of Church and State (remember, these were NOT MYTHS to the Greeks it was religion). It is also a good reminder that OUR religions, in 1500 years, will be taught as myth...think about it.

Answer 5

It goes with teaching history. Part of understanding a culture is understanding their religion; it's been said that the two must go hand in hand, and I think I agree with that statement.

Besides that, it's general cultural knowledge that many can reference, much like Aesop's fables or Mother Goose.

Answer 6

Because you won't ever stop going back to it further on down the road in college,etc. Greek myths are in many ways the basis for the current Christian religion and the philosophies of our culture in general.

Answer 7

They want you to have a grasp of the underpinnings of Western civilization. You should know the basic content of the Bible, too. So much is derived from those two sources that not being aware of them would be a tremendous academic handicap, especially in English.

Answer 8

For many, it's the first worldly exposure to the notion that their religious beliefs are only part of the history of humanity's spiritual development. To become educated and truly enlightened, is to learn about the broadest perspectives possible.

Answer 9

To infuse a fairy-tale like aura in the classroom, so as to trick youngsters into thinking that school is fun? Probably not. It is because it's deeply ingrained in European culture, that's why.

Answer 10

how is possible thinking well ? Have you an other program for teach it?..It becam from Sumerian mythology....Whats with 12 Plan? 12 Planet,12......