The Age of the Gods or Theogony (Birth of the Gods)

This period encompasses myths about the origin of the world, the Gods, and the human race. It is a time when the cosmos was being shaped and the divine hierarchy was established.

The Age of Gods and Men

During this era, stories focus on the interactions between Gods, Demigods, and Mortals. The divine beings frequently intervened in human affairs, often leading to epic tales of love, betrayal, and heroism.

The Era of the Heroes

This period is characterized by the limited activity of the Gods and the rise of human heroes. The last and greatest of the heroic myths is the Trojan War, which some researchers consider a separate fourth period.

Who Created Greek Mythology?

The stories of Greek mythology were initially shaped through oral and poetic tradition before being disseminated in writing through the works of Greek literature. The oldest known literary sources are the two epics, the Iliad and the Odyssey of Homer (8th century BC), which are dedicated to the events of the Trojan War and the adventures of Odysseus that followed.

The Poetic Works

Every time we think of Greek mythology, we think of terrifying creatures and heroic battles. Additionally, images of idealized figures and sometimes perverse stories come to mind. This collection of stories was of pivotal importance for the ancient Greek mindset. It nurtured the development of Greek civilization through the generations.

What is Greek Mythology?

The term 'Greek mythology' covers all the myths related to the Greek tradition, as they are presented through existing literary evidence. 'Greek mythology' is specifically defined as the telling of mythical stories created by the Greeks and concerned with their gods and heroes, the nature of the world, and the ritual practices of their worship.

When Did Greek Mythology Begin?

This question doesn't really have a straightforward answer. It is difficult to know the exact year of birth of Greek mythology, as it is believed to have originated from centuries of oral tradition. It is likely that Greek myths evolved from stories told in the Mycenaean and Minoan sites, the latter of which flourished from about 3000 to 1100 BCE.

History and Origin of Greek Mythology

Mythology has changed over time to adapt to the evolution of Greek culture. The first inhabitants of the Balkan Peninsula, who were agricultural populations, had attributed a spirit to every natural phenomenon. Over time, these vague spirits took human form and became part of mythology as gods and goddesses.

Modern Interpretations

Modern scholars attribute interpretations and symbols of our time to Greek myths. For example, Sigmund Freud used the Oedipal complex theory to explain the name of the Theban hero. Others today seek to emphasize the homosexual element in ancient Greece through its myths, believing that in the middle of the archaic period, they gradually began to project relations between gods and heroes.

Epic Poetry and Mythological Chronology

The achievement of epic poetry was to create historical circles and consequently develop a concept of mythological chronology. Although contradictions in the stories make absolute dating impossible, it is almost possible. The mythological works of Hesiod (8th century BC) are also considered to be an extremely valuable source of information: Theogony and the Works and Days, which refer to the ancient Greek conception of the creation of the world, the succession of divine rulers, human times, the origins of human drama, and sacrificial practices.

Greek Mythology in Modern Culture

Greek Mythology is an integral part of Greek culture, even today. It has exceedingly influenced Western civilization, its philosophy, history, politics, art, and literature, while poets and artists from across the world have derived inspiration from it.

Conclusion

Don't skip on learning the deepest secrets of antiquity and the hundreds of myths to be found under every rock you turn. Greek mythology offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Greek mindset and continues to be a source of inspiration and wisdom.