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.

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.  

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.