This unit examines the nature of myth through the myths of Greece and Rome. It explores the way in which myths are adapted to reflect particular societies, ages and cultural forms. We will investigate myths of creation, gods, heroes and monsters in Greek and Roman epic and drama (Homer, Hesiod, Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides, Vergil, Ovid, Seneca). Near Eastern parallels such as the Epic of Gilgamesh will be also examined. In addition, we shall explore the theoretical tools of studying myth including the ritual school, functionalism, post-structuralism and phenomenology. All texts will be studied in translation. -- Course Website
Instructor: Dr Evangelina Anagnostou-Laoutides
