Myths

1. Myths Myths are symbolic tales of the distant past that concern the origin and nature of the universe, may be connected to belief systems or rituals, and may serve to direct social action and values.

2. Definition of Myths Myths are tales believed as true, usually sacred, set in the distant past or other worlds or parts of the world, and with extra-human , inhuman, or heroic characters.

3. Characteristics of Myths The characteristics of a Myth: • Myths try to explain how something came to be in the universe. • Examples: “Why the elephant has a trunk”, “How the sun was placed in the sky”. • The characters in Myths may be gods, goddesses or superhumans who may appear in disguises. • Lessons are taught in Myths. • The Gods in Myths have human feelings (emotions). • Magic is present in Myths.

4. Inuit Myth of Creation http://mythicjourneys.org/bigmyth/2_eng_myths.htm

5. Questions with a partner Inuit Questions Write the answers on a clean sheet of paper. 1. What powers does the Raven have? 2. Who was the first inhabitant of the earth and how did this person come into being? 3. What did the world look like when the first inhabitant appeared on earth? 4. What was already present at that time? 5. How did women come into existence and what was their task? 6. How did the Raven create a certain balance in nature? 7. How can you tell from the creation myth that the Inuit were hunters? 8. What similarities do you see between the Inuit creation myth and those of other cultures?

6. Now…. Look through some of the examples of myths from our library on the cart.

7. Create Form Fashion Design Make up your own Myth. Write a rough draft on clean paper and keep it in your notebook.