Question: I need to study and analyze a Roman or Greek myth.
Getting Started
Virtually all ancient cultures have their own myths and many of these are still
with us today, although we may not realize from where they originated. Myths
are generally found in a few areas of the Dewey Decimal System 291.13, 292,
and 398 – the
library system has a pretty good collection.
The first step is to select the culture whose myths you want to study, like Aztec, African, Celtic and Indian. You can get started by browsing in the stacks or the library catalog.
Greek and Roman Myths
There are a lot of dictionaries
of mythology – they’re generally a good place to start, especially
if you’re not familiar with all of the players. Some resources you might
try out are A
Genealogical Chart of Greek Mythology (292.13 N464g 2003) and Cassell's
Dictionary of Classical Mythology (292.1303 M331c 2001). Check out the
genealogy charts in these books to find out how the gods are related to each
other.
Finding the Myths
You can find myths in Bulfinch’s
Mythology (292.13 B871bg 2000) and in individual books listed in the library
catalog. A series called Monsters
of Mythology provides a book-length version of some of the myths illustrated
by well-known artists. You can also search the library catalog by specific
deities like Zeus.
Interpreting Myths
There are a variety of approaches to interpreting myths. Check out some of
the books listed here to get started.
Not to be missed is Classical Myths and Legends in the Middle Ages and Renaissance: A Dictionary of Allegorical Meanings (r809.02 B834c 1998), which provides an alphabetical list of heroes and gods with their allegorical meanings. If you don’t find the name you are looking for, check the index. An appendix explains how to apply interpretations to music.
An Encyclopedia of archetypal symbolism (291.1303 A673 1991) is another good source to consult. For a business slant on archetypes don't miss The hero and the outlaw: building extraordinary brands through the power of archetypes (658.827 M34h 2001).
The Motif–Index of Folk Literature and Dictionary of Mythology Folklore and Symbols (398.016 T37 1955-58 v) identify symbols that reoccur in many myths. A couple of helpful books for understanding symbols are The Secret Language of Symbols: A Visual Key to Symbols and Their Meanings(302.222.F735s 1994) and Dictionary of All Scriptures and Myths(290.3 G21 1960). To find additional materials on symbols and symbolism, subject search in the library catalog the word symbolism.
Joseph Campbell has written extensively on mythology in such books as The Flight of the Wild Gander: Explorations in the Mythological Dimension (291.13 C152f 2002) and Historical Atlas of World Mythology (291.13 C15hi 1988).
Mythologies is a comprehensive reference and research source that offers new ways to understand the power of myth and tradition across cultures and centuries.
Mythology in our Midst: A Guide to Cultural Resources (201.3 P442m 2004) outlines some of the connections between myths and our everyday lives. Each entry in the book begins with a retelling of the myth, and then the relationships with popular culture, psychology, literature, art and words are explored.
Thematic Guide to World Mythology (201.3 S882t 2004) uses a comparative approach to explore patterns that recur with myths gathered from a broad range of cultural traditions. These patterns include creation myths, monsters, the rainbow and the underworld.
In Search of Myths & Heroes (DVD 201 I35) This Public Broadcast Service (PBS) DVD follows Michael Wood as he travels in search of the truth behind four famous legends. Wood explores not only the historical past and literal truth of these myths, but also the mythic past and archetypal stories behind them.
Archetypes
According to the Encyclopedia
of Psychology (150.3 E56k 2000), Carl Jung (pronounced ‘young’)
introduced the term ‘archetype’ in 1919 to explain symbols and
themes that run through dreams, religions, tribal lore and mythology. These
archetypes, such as the hero’s journey, transcend individual cultures
because they are part of the human “collective unconscious” according
to Jung. This can be an interesting approach to the study of myth and may explain
why they are still powerful today.
Two books that will help explain archetypes are The writer's journey: mythic structure for writers (808.23 V868w 1998), and the complete writer's guide to heroes & heroines: sixteen master archetypes (r808.397 C838c 2000).
One book in particular that you might want to use is Archive for Research in Psychological Symbolism (291.1303 A673 1991). To find other materials on archetypes try a subject search of Archetype Psychology in the library catalog.
Would you like to explore some archetypes as they play themselves out in American art and literature? The four-volume series Archetypes of the Collective Unconscious (154.2 J954ar 1980) explores the archetypes of shadow, seeker, lover and healer. Volume two (Healer: Transforming The Inner And Outer Wounds) for example, begins with an introduction to the healer archetype written by Andrew Weil who is himself a well-known healer. This is followed by myths, stories, poems and artwork using the healer archetype. This series is full of insights into the power of archetypes to influence the way we feel, hear and act.
If TCCL doesn’t have books and other materials you need for your paper you can Interlibrary Loan them, which means we borrow them from another library system for you. If you choose to do this, request the materials as soon as possible because it sometimes takes several weeks for them to come in.
Once you have all materials for your paper, it’s time to start writing. If you need some help the library has many writing manuals; the Primary Source Page lists a few of them and there are several Writing pathfinders you might find useful as well.
If you have any questions, contact your local library or ask a librarian!