Wednesday, 27 July 2016

Greek Mythology: Culture and Religion (Part IV)

(Greek Mythology: Culture and Religion Part I)
(Greek Mythology: Culture and Religion Part II)
(Greek Mythology: Culture and Religion Part III)

Previously, I discussed how mythological tales were often reflective of the humans passing down the stories. In this post, I want to look at how the types of stories told could be indicative of the culture of the time.


Sunday, 17 July 2016

Greek Mythology: Culture and Religion (Part III)

(Greek Mythology: Culture and Religion Part I)
(Greek Mythology: Culture and Religion Part II)

In my last post, I examined the variance with similar myths and the possibility that the Greeks didn’t necessarily believe in their own myths. In contrast, another interesting aspect of mythology is the parallels to humanity that exist, which could also provide an explanation for myths that contrasted their beliefs.  


Tuesday, 5 July 2016

Greek Mythology: Culture and Religion (Part II)

(Greek Mythology: Culture and Religion Part I)

Previously, I discussed the contrast between mythology and the morals of the Greeks, and how exactly they justified it. Another way to reconcile these aspects is with the idea that the Greeks did not fully believe their own myths. This could be seen as odd as tales and fables are an integral part of any religion, modern religions demonstrate similar ideologies. However, it could easily be argued that either they did not believe their myths or that mythology was not regarded as the definitive truth at all times.

Wednesday, 29 June 2016

The Trials of Apollo #1: The Hidden Oracle Review

The Hidden Oracle is the first book in Riordan’s new series, The Trials of Apollo. It follows the events of The Heroes of Olympus; however, it has a completely different perspective character, Apollo! The reader accompanies him on his trials to earn his way back into Olympus, the first trial involving finding the hidden oracle.

Tuesday, 21 June 2016

Greek Mythology: Culture and Religion (Part I)

When discussing the Ancient Greeks and their religion, an integral element is the mythology that accompanied it. From tales of great heroic deeds to stories of gods behaving outrageously, for readers in the present day, they are a great source of entertainment and are regarded as brilliant literature. However, the myths we have gained from the Ancient Greeks are fascinating to discuss, in their own right, and in conjunction with religion and culture.

Sunday, 12 June 2016

'Elizabeth is Missing' Short Review

‘Elizabeth is Missing’, by Emma Healey, is an intriguing novel about 70-year-old Maude who is determined to find her friend Elizabeth, as she is convince that something is wrong – even if no one trusts her memory.