How Do Myths and Legends Shape a Society?

Mythology can provide a framework for understanding natural events and the All-powerful Divine. It can also help to define social norms and codes of behavior, explain sacred sites or narratives important to a culture, or otherwise be an communal repository of knowledge about ontologically significant objects, concepts, or experiences. To some degree, all societies rely on myths and legends as contextualizers of reality in order to promote cohesion among its members.

One way mythology and legends reflect the culture is by reflecting the values of the culture. In Japan, for example, many of the myths focus on aspects of Bushido, the traditional Japanese code of ethics which stresses self-discipline, honor, and bravery. Other examples of mythology and legends that reflect the values of a culture include Greek mythology, which reflects the classics-oriented culture of Ancient Greece; Norse mythology, which reflects the Viking heritage and conquests of Scandinavia; and Aboriginal Australian legends, which reflect the vast continent Australia and its many cultures. Mythology also can reflect the history of a culture. For example, in Norse mythology, Valhalla is a hall where pagan gods who have died in battle are rewarded for their valor with food and drink as well as companionship from beautiful women. The story reflectsevents from Norse history, such as the Viking raids that spread Christianity across Europe.

There are a variety of reasons why people continue to read myths and legends today. Some myths and legends depict timeless themes that are relevant in the art of storytelling, as well as portraying the human experience in a unique way. Additionally, mythology and legend can provide insights into the values and perspectives of long gone cultures.

One purpose of myths is to perpetuate cultural values and beliefs. These may be essential stories that are used to explain the origins of a society, its customs, and its natural environment, or they can be folktales with humorous or whimsical elements that help to strengthen social ties. Additionally, myths may evoke images or symbols that can be used in religious ceremonies or other cultural celebrations.

There are many reasons we tell myths and legends. Sometimes they provide a sense of identity for people who tell them and for those who hear them. They can also be used to teach morality or lessons about life. They can also be used as sources of entertainment.