The Relationship Between Mythology And History Ancient...

An analysis of the Relationship between Mythology and History: Mythology in Ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt William R Madden Western Civilization September 25, 2017 How has history been affected by the myths of ancient cultures? Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines the word history as â€Å"a chronological record of significant events.† In contrast, Merriam-Webster defines the word mythology as â€Å"an allegorical narrative† or â€Å"a body of myths: such as: the myths dealing with the gods, demigods, and legendary heroes of a particular people.† History is generally implied to be a record of events as they occur, while mythology often tells fantastical stories of figures who are used as vehicles to provide a message for the audience.†¦show more content†¦Archeology compliments and corroborates written and oral history with physical evidence. Mythology may sometimes contain an element of truth . We might dismiss mythological tales of ancient gods and goddesses or divinely empowered heroes as wholly implausible entertainment. However, when examined impartially we might reveal that some stories are derived or inspired by actual historical events . Mythology has influenced other cultures, sometimes becoming adopted into new host societies – often morphing into new interpretations with each adaptation. In most cultures mythology begins with the human attempt to give meaning to the natural world we live in . For the Ancient Egyptians the cyclical rhythms of the Nile river, along with other elements of nature, were ascribed to the various deities which created and maintained life within the Egyptian mythos . Mesopotamia, another early civilization, developed a similar mythology structure as the Egyptians. Ancient Mesopotamians felt the Gods were responsible for shaping the world they resided in . Both cultures placed a g reat deal of emphasis on the life-sustaining river, or rivers on the which their societies were dependent. Egypt and Mesopotamia likely did not have very much interaction at the outset of their development, and so, the mythologicalShow MoreRelated The History of Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt Essay1323 Words   |  6 PagesThe History of Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt are both cradles of civilization. Both contributed greatly to human development through their achievements, failures, peoples, scientific accomplishments, philosophies, religions, and contributions. Mesopotamia is a rich flat plain created by deposits from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. At the southern end of this plain developed the first recognizable civilization, in the area known as Sumer. In 3000Read MoreThe Creation Myth Of Ancient Egyptian Civilization1852 Words   |  8 Pagesaimed at pleasing a god or gods. 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