Explore how classical mythology has influenced contemporary literature, film, and art.
Classical mythology: This includes the myths, legends, and stories from ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, such as the stories of Zeus, Athena, Apollo, and Aphrodite.
Archetypes: The concept of archetypes refers to universal symbols and recurring patterns in myths and folklore that are used to represent human experiences and emotions.
Hero's Journey: The Hero's Journey refers to a narrative structure found in many myths and legends, wherein the protagonist embarks on a transformative journey, facing challenges, and experiencing personal growth along the way.
Gods and goddesses: The pantheon of Greek and Roman gods and goddesses includes many well-known figures, such as Zeus, Hera, Apollo, and Athena. Understanding the roles and attributes of these deities can help to interpret their appearances in contemporary art.
Mythological creatures: Mythological creatures, such as centaurs, satyrs, and sirens, are often depicted in ancient myths and contemporary art.
Mythological themes: Certain themes, like love, betrayal, and revenge, are common in classical mythology and can be explored in contemporary art.
Greco-Roman art: Greco-Roman art refers to the artistic style and techniques used in ancient Greece and Rome. Understanding this art can help to identify classical mythological influences in contemporary art.
Modern literature: Many modern writers have drawn on classical myths for their inspiration. Understanding these literary works can help to contextualize classical mythological themes in contemporary culture.
Film and television: Classical myths have played a significant role in the plots and themes of many films and television shows. Familiarity with these popular cultural artifacts can help to understand mythological influences in contemporary visual culture.
Contemporary art criticism: Finally, understanding the various frameworks and methodologies of contemporary art criticism can help to contextualize the use of classical mythology in contemporary art.
Film and television: Mythological stories and characters often inspire filmmakers and TV producers to create new and exciting content. Examples of such shows are "Game of Thrones" and "Percy Jackson.".
Literature: Modern authors continue to explore myths and legends in their writing. Rick Riordan's books based on Greek mythology, J. K. Rowling's incorporation of mythical creatures and lore in her Harry Potter series are examples.
Art: Classical mythology has been a popular subject in art throughout the centuries. Famous examples include the Roman statues of Apollo, the painting of the Greek goddess Athena by Botticelli, etc.
Music: Mythological stories and characters have also influenced musicians throughout history. Examples include the use of the story of Orpheus in Tony Award-winning musical "Hadestown.".
Fashion: In contemporary fashion, designers may be influenced by mythological symbols and characters to create unique clothing or accessories.
Advertising: Brands have used mythological references to advertise their products, such as the use of the Greek god Hermes for luxury retail company, Hermes.
Video Games: Mythological stories have served as inspirations for video games, such as the third-person action-adventure game "God of War.".
Politics: Mythological references occasionally make their way into politics and legislation, as seen in the use of references to the Roman Empire in the United States Constitution or in the exhibition of the Greek Parthenon on the Nashville State Capitol building.
Sports: Mythological figures often serve as mascots or team names in sports, like the use of the Greek god Pan in the Panathinaikos FC Greek football team logo.
Science: Mythological themes are sometimes used in scientific or technological inventions, like the app Chiron Health that uses the name of a famous mythological centaur.