Myths are interesting stories you can read to entertain yourself. The hidden lesson behind this myth is the fact that you should always trust your gut instinct. Its true that the gods only exist as works of folklore miles and miles up and away to the Greeks, and centuries away in the past for you today. She felt honor-bound to send him off in the proper Greek fashion, according to divine laws. Browse the CommonLit Library! 1. Echo, a young nymph, was cursed by Hera to repeat whatever she heard because Echo had tried to distract and hide Zeus affairs with other nymphs from Hera. It isnt a good investment wasting 3 hours on a business meeting that might not go anywhere. Creative work that I hope empowers others. The higher he went, the hotter it was, until the wax gave in. Medusa is a Gorgon, a hideous monster with serpents instead of hair. However, this talent was a gift from Athena, and Arachne didnt want to thank her for it. Pourquoi Tales - Myths to explain why things are the way they are2. Flying too high would cause the wax to melt, and too low would cause the wings to be dampened. The ancient Greeks valued strength, courage, and the quest for fame. To me, I don't believe that heaven and earth exist as physical places after we die. Or if I will be alive tomorrow. Thematic concepts? Sharing it builds students background knowledge and shows how complex and intertwined legend and history can become. English/Language Arts: This myth is another that lends itself to discussions about thematic concepts like hubris. An, Exciting News: Updates Coming to CommonLit 360 for Middle School (Grades 6-8), Our new and updated units are responsive to research and teacher feedback, and have been created with student and teacher growth in mind. I learn a lot of life and moral lessons from these mythological stories. Pandora was the first woman in Greek mythology, and Hesiod tells us that her curiosity led her to take the lid off the jar (not box) containing all of the worlds ills, unleashing them upon the world in the process. Your looks dont define who you are. Very few of us know what untroubled calm feels like. 1. If so, why? Here are ten engaging multi-genre texts for middle and high school sure to provoke discussion in your classrooms! Daedalus also warns Icarus not to fly too close to the sun or the wax will melt, but Icarus cant help himself. Either way, youre bound to learn something important. Its also great for any unit that has to do with understanding how things came to be. He attacks her in Athenas temple. In the past, myths and folktales were how people explained natural phenomena and dispensed wisdom from one generation to the next. Not to mention the variety of myths that exist many of these myths give children knowledge and understanding of the world. Hes been teaching for over five years. According to the Greek myth, this is because Zeus wants humans to suffer but also have hope that if they pray to the gods, the gods might help them. I feel that happiness in life is more about peace, tranquility, and calm not living an exciting life. Here are 10 great Greek myths that your students should know and a few ways to integrate them into your lessons. Later, when Pyramus shows up, he sees the lioness tearing the cloak to pieces. A mortal woman, Niobe, was heard bragging about how she had given birth to more . They can warn us against behavior that could sabotage our own happiness or safety. (Its also the name of the planet from the movie. Elementary classes: This myth is perfect for younger students because it avoids a lot of the more adult themes that are often present in Greek myths. Curiosity killed the cat, and in this case, it made the earth a place filled with darkness. Ideas, Inspiration, and Giveaways for Teachers. When it comes to tyranny, the all-powerful Zeus and hot-headed Poseidon especially know everything there is to know. In this blog post, Powerful Poems by Black Authors for Secondary Students, These engaging and diverse poems on CommonLits digital literary platform are all written by Black authors and poets. These myths were used to explain life as it once was: the Gods, what happens when you die and how to live 'the good life'. His wish was granted but on the condition that he mustnt look back at Eurydice as she followed him out of Hades, until they were both safely back in the land of the living. The Greek story of Narcissus, a deathly-handsome young man, is presented as the backstory of the daffodil, also known by its scientific name, narcissus. You can learn all about how to rule with an iron fist from direct accounts of the gods stories: Greek myths. They usually have to do with feelings, behaviors, or situations that are common in life. But Narcissus told her to go away, and so she did. As she flees, her cloak is left behind. This is what Hercules did to prevent the re-growth of the necks of Hydra. Have students read along as Odysseus must use his quick thinking and leadership skills to navigate this next challenge. These stories, which have been passed down through the generations, are not just simple tales but are a rich tapestry of beliefs, traditions, and values that reflect the culture, society, and religious practices of the ancient Greeks. Additionally, this is one of those words that has a modern connection, the Pandora music app. These stories of the triumphs and tragedies of gods and goddesses (and some mortals in the mix), started out as ways of explaining how the world was or teaching moral lessons. The young man, Hippomenes, wins the race and marries Atalanta. Once she found out her daughter was in the Underworld and that Hades would not return her, Demeter became depressed. Demeter, Persephone and Hades: Spring Will Come Again Myths to explain natural phenomena3. This could be an interesting way to introduce the medical history behind some psychological concepts. Eventually, one suitor prays to Aphrodite, the goddess of love, for help. 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But at the same time, you want to enjoy your life. Before reading, have students brainstorm some things they know about the Underworld. Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides were exemplary Greek tragedy playwrights of the ancient world. Icarus didnt intend to lose his life, but not taking his fathers advice resulted in his downfall. Echo faded away until the only thing left of her was her voice. The phoenix is a mystical creature (a bird), that when it dies, it burns into ashes. What we can learn from this myth is that hard times come and go. The lyrist Orpheus fell in love with the beautiful Eurydice, only for her to die shortly after; Orpheus made the journey into Hades, the Underworld, to try to bring his beloved back. Daedalus warns Icarus that the wings are fragile and that he shouldnt fly too close to the ocean or the dampness will make the wings too heavy. This cursed her and all her descendants to weave for eternity. Shes raised by first a bear and then some hunters, who teach her how to be an amazing athlete and hunter even though shes a girl. Without thinking, Midas wishes that everything he touches be turned to gold. English/Language Arts: Greek myths make excellent stories for mini-lessons on literary elements. These stories of gods and heroes in Greece were always an important part of understanding the world. The knot he used, though, became part of a legend that stated that whoever was able to untie the knot would become the ruler of all of Asia. He fell to his death, drowning in the Aegean. Not to mention, the variety of myths that exist, many of these myths give children knowledge and understanding of the world. Gain more money, power, and influence. Why do we have summer and winter? Echo found it hard to tell Narcissus how she felt for him, in any case, because she had already been cursed so that she could only repeat what others said, rather than speak for herself. In this story, Emperor Akbar discovers Tansens gift, and he is heralded as one of the most talented musicians in the kingdom. Persephone could visit her mother four months a year. Since the early days of civilisation, the Greek people have shared these sweeping tales of triumph and tragedy, love and loss, jealousy and joy - and usually a lot of gore. However, the other musicians in the Emperors court become jealous of Tansens skill and devise a plot that could mean his demise! After being cursed, Echo wandered the woods simply repeating whatever she heard and was no longer able to express herself. Indeed, a person who doesn't look beyond the . Even at the request of Hermes, the messenger god sent by Zeus, Demeter refused to allow the harvests growth until Persephone returned to her. In this case, Pyramus rashness cost him both his and Thibes lives. Once we think we obtain what we want, our Hydra necks will continue to grow. This text is an accessible introduction to Greek mythology for students who might find myths intimidating. Notably the modern reader can learn valuable moral lessons from ancient Greek myths. They are stories of people dealing with the gods and either they come out triumphant or they end up bloody and charred or turned into animals and plants. Aphrodite was angered, ruling that he could only fall in love with himself and this is a love that can never be returned. Persephone was the goddess of spring and the daughter of the goddess of earth, Demeter. Just like the ancient Roman tale the ( Moirai ) women who string the threads of life you can never go backwards: The harsh sisters ply their tasks; yet they do not split backwards the threads of life. Get students thinking about why an app might choose that particular name. Seneca. Youd have no cares in the world well, no cares besides reigning over humans and ensuring they worship you as you rightfully deserve. Some suggestions? - Destiny can not be changed, we are all born with a mission in life. Resources for middle and high school teachers, Resources for implementing our free ELA curriculum for grades 6-12, Resources for admins looking to ignite reading growth at their schools, Research-backed insights, testimonials, and case studies showcasing CommonLit efficacy. Core Knowledge Foundation | Building knowledge and community Take those opportunities, no matter how random they might seem. Would your students say that we value the same things today? Man was created by Prometheus and given the gift of critical thinking, but Pandora was made by Zeus for the specific purpose of causing chaos and suffering. Sometimes all you can do is accept the situation and make the most of the circumstances. A Terrible First Date Hades emerged from his Underworld and saw Persephone in a meadow. Athena punished Medusa by turning her into a monster, with the objective of preventing another man from looking at her ever again. The ancient Greek myths explain a lot about what the Greek people understood about the world. If you dont fear death you will live life to the fullest. Copyright Symbol Sage 2022 All Rights Reserved. A discussion of some of his more school-appropriate inventions would be a wonderful launch for a makerspace of invention activity. Then, have students discuss how they resolved the problem. Summary: Notably, the modern reader can learn valuable moral lessons from ancient Greek myths. What we can learn from this myth is the fact that greed can be ones doom. These stories of gods, goddesses, and heroes reflect the unexplained beginning of many ways of nature, moral stands, and entertaining legends. Lessons center around:1. Its about looking inside yourself for true love and fulfillment. Some of them are completely fiction, while others are based on facts. Flight Disaster: Whats Going On With Southwest Airlines? Remember, its okay to not be good at everything. Unfortunately, Icarus fails to follow his fathers directions to disastrous results. Mathematics: Okay, I know Im stretching a bit, but as an English person, I would have loved to have had a math teacher who used stories like this when introducing concepts like volume or other geometric terms. CommonLits online digital literacy program provides teachers with access to thousands of compelling, free texts and comprehension questions. This son of a Titan was regarded as a great benefactor of humankind, the bringer of fire and the original teacher of technology and useful arts to the mankind. The Mayor must employ the help of the Pied Piper, a mysterious figure who uses his magical instrument to charm vermin and lead them away. The Hydra is like a metaphor for our lust for more. Gordias fulfilled the prophecy and thus became the new king. The man who unties/undoes the Gordian knot is destined to rule over all of Asia. 2014-2022 CommonLit | CommonLit is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Ships had to navigate between these two dangerous forces when travelling through this part of the Mediterranean sea. Midas is known for two things: being given the ears of an ass, and turning everything he touched into gold. Have students read this text and ask about a time they had a fight with someone close to them. Lets take a look at some of the most intriguing mythological tales and the lessons they hold. As the goddess of springtime grew distracted from soaking up sun rays and admiring the yellow flowers, Hades, god of the underworld, snatched her up onto his chariot. Ive gained a lot of inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman Mythology. Narcissus died waiting and became the flower that today carries his name. From the shadows Echo watched him and repeated Narcissus last words to himself: Farewell farewell. Where his body had once lain bloomed the yellow flower called narcissus. They were supposedly found on opposite sides of the Strait of Messina between Sicily and Calabria, with Scylla being a monster with six heads and Charybdis being a deadly whirlpool. Athena decided to punish Medusa and made her suffer even more, rather than going against Poseidon, who was to blame for what he did. This myth teaches us that injustice is prevalent in society. In a reckless train of thought, he took his dagger and stabbed himself right in the heart, dying instantly. She then decided to kill herself with the same dagger Pyramus did. After reading, ask them who they think experienced greater loss in this story, Icarus or Daedalus. If you're stupid enough to insult a Greek God or Goddess, watch out! > Known to but few is untroubled calm; and mindful of times swift flight; hold fast the days that will never return. By considering these morals, the listener can apply these during their own hardships . When he arrives in the Underworld, Hades is eagerly awaiting him. Rather, I think of heaven and hell as a concept of our lives here on earth. As Im getting older, time is flowing forward even faster: > Life speeds on with hurried step; and with winged days the wheel of the headlong year is turned. The ancient Greeks sure knew how to pack a lot into a short story! Given the Mayors greed, ask them to explain whether they think the Pied Pipers response is justified. These following aspects are shown in the following myths, Phaethon and the Chariot of the Sun, Icarus and Daedalus, and Athena and Arachne. We are all ultimately afraid of either pain or death. After being crowned, Gordias ties up his cart in the town square in honor of Zeus. See if this one sounds a bit familiar. The myths of Echo and Narcissus are wonderful and do have a moral lesson. Encourage students to support their thinking with evidence from the text. Give your students a Greek myth like this one at the end of a unit and ask them to come up with math problems based on what theyve learned in class and the events of the story. They are prisoners of King Minos. Athena places it on her shield as a symbol of her power. But Hercules from ancient Greek mythology wasnt always the great hero we imagine. The poster-boy of existentialism, Sisyphus has become associated with laborious and pointless tasks, because he was condemned to roll a boulder up a hill, only for the boulder to roll back down to the bottom just as he was about to complete the task. Arachne agrees. It would make an excellent creative-writing prompt. The goddess depression meant a halt in the fertility of the land, causing famine for humans. She spent 18 years teaching English/Language Arts in the public school setting and holds a Master's Degree in Special Education. Perseus was eventually able to decapitate Medusa. Based on Greek mythology, these plays dealt with moral dilemmas and were tragic in tone. Or would they say our society values different things? In this version of the Cinderella story from One Thousand and One Arabian Nights, the youngest of three sisters is mistreated by her two older sisters and is forced to spin flax in rags. Although we feature this classic mythological tale on this list of best Greek stories, the introduction of Echo into the tale of Narcissus appears to have been the invention of a Roman poet, Ovid, in his Metamorphoses. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'studybreaks_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_4',120,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-studybreaks_com-medrectangle-4-0');Imagine being so into yourself that you drown due to the infectiousness of your own conceit? These following aspects are shown in the following myths Phaethon and the Chariot of the Sun Icarus and Daedalus and . The stories dictated how they understood the world around them. Atalanta agrees, but only if the man can beat her in a foot race. In this Greek myth, inventor Daedalus and his son, Icarus, are exiled on the island of Crete. Daedalus had warned his son not to fly either too high or too low. For the ancient Greeks, these stories were their religion, their entertainment, their history, and, yes, their science. After reading, have them discuss how those are different from what they read in the text. He was ordered to carry out his famous Twelve Labours as penance for the murder of his own wife and children, while he was in the service of the king Eurystheus. For the ancient Greeks, it was thanks to Persephone, the daughter of Zeus and Demeter. Icarus fell to his death, drowning in the sea. Echo was a beautiful nymph that loved to talk. This text is one of many German folk tales collected by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, more commonly referred to as the Brothers Grimm. As he drank from a pool of water, his reflection mesmerized him to the point that he felt only death could set him free.