Myths Case

I think all myths are a starting point for religion. They teach spirituality through lessons. They help to develop right from wrong and define a set of codes or values for society. Almost all myths are originated from a legend, and all legends are based on an element of truth. Myths do not need to be religious, but they are based on values or ideas. The values are often incorporated into religion. Good vs evil. A great example of society shifting values and effecting myths and religion is the Greeks and Romans. The Romans incorporated many gods and myths from the Greek. They then just changed the idea or attitude to fit their own moral compass. Greeks had Zeus "Father of Gods and men" and the Romans had Jupiter Optimus Maximus (all-good, all-powerful). The Romans even changed the surname to fit the modern culture or ideas. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter_%28mythology%29 for a list of surnames and why they were changed. The ancient Norse mythology had their supreme being called Tyr or Ziu. The origin of Tyr is similar to Jupiter/Zeus. They all had to overthrow the father (Odin) to assume control of the heavens. As history and rulers changed so did the myths and gods. Like all good myths it changed with time, and he gave way to Odin.

Creation myths and religions are basically the same throughout time. They each propose to explain the start and stop of the universe. Myths and religions have a supreme being who ultimately creates and control everything from heaven to hell. The supreme being sets down a code or guide to follow to reach Valhalla. In more violent times, a sure way to reach heaven was to die in honorable combat or war. Now in more peaceful times, a more neutral approach is rewarded. It is a clear example of how our culture has shaped our religion and values.

Creation myths of the past can be seen in our modern culture and religion. We still have one all seeing god in most religions. They believe in other