Project 1: Stage 3—Interpreting Myth Paper
Instructions
At this point you will combine the work you have done in Stages 1 and 2 into a complete paper offering an interpretation of the myth
It is essential to provide a complete interpretation of the myth you chose that clearly relates the myth to the culture it is from. This means that you must provide the cultural context of the myth and relate it to something from its culture. Your 1000-1250 word essay should include the following:
A brief summary of the myth: Provide a concise summary of the myth you have chosen to analyze. This should include the main characters, plot, and any significant events or themes.
A description of the cultural context of the myth: Explain the cultural context of the myth, including the time period, location, and any relevant historical or cultural factors that may have influenced the myth’s creation.
A description of the archetypes seen in this myth: Identify and describe the archetypes present in the myth, such as the hero, the mentor, or the trickster. Explain how these archetypes apply to nonmaterial culture, such as beliefs, values, norms, or customs and traditions, and gender or societal roles in the myth’s culture.
An analysis of the meaning of the myth in that culture: Use a theoretical approach from the class to analyze the meaning of the myth in its culture. Show how the myth relates to specific elements of nonmaterial culture, such as moral, political, social, economic, scientific, or proto-scientific messages it contains. Use specific examples from the myth and cultural context to support your analysis.
A conclusion: Summarize your analysis and provide a conclusion that ties together the main points of your essay.
A reference list in MLA format: Include a reference list of all sources used in your essay in MLA format.
By providing a complete analysis of the myth’s cultural context, archetypes, and meaning, you will demonstrate a deep understanding of the myth and its significance in its culture.
Note: This is different from doing a literary interpretation of the myth in that you are making explicit connections between the myth and its culture.
