Myths: An Insight on Cultures

In this week’s discussion, all group members agreed on the idea that myths have a big role in shaping identities. With the various symbology and meanings tucked behind anthropomorphic characters and natural landscapes, myths are a gateway to understanding the distinct cultures in the world’s history. Myths dating back to centuries ago still have a significant impact on following generations. The values and concepts embedded in these myths have strong ties to reality to which many people can relate to. The philosophy of these myths may be integrated by the readers and one may choose to consider the teachings in their own lifestyle which may reflect in their interactions and worldviews. 

My group focussed on how creation myths provide a deep understanding into the beliefs of various cultures. Taking a look at the Hindu myth “Brahma Creates the World”, we can identify a number of teachings that may be impactful to Hindu believers. We see the cyclical concept of life in which birth and destruction are inevitable of all beings. The recurrence of good and bad depicted through symbology of darkness and light, gods and demons provides perspectives of the world. The idea that one must pay for his offenses and be rewarded for his virtues are also ideas valued in Hindu myths. These meaningful beliefs may shape many lifestyles for believers and impact their values. This myth also gives us insight on how the roles of women are depicted in this worldview where Lakshmi is presented rubbing Brahma’s feet as an act of service. This visual may shape the gender roles and may create guidelines for the Hindu people as to how they are expected to live within their societies. Likewise, the Japanese myth of creation shows the significance of the man in which when the male spoke before the female, all was in order but when the female spoke before the man, there would be no production of proper offspring and it would create disorder. Once again, this shows the significance of genders in these societies.

In modern society, various myths have been reflected in artwork and media. A strong example of this in the real world is the depiction of Hindu figure Rama from the well known epic Ramayana. The Ramayana is portrayed in many paintings as well. Lord Rama is an important deity in the Hindu religion and is an incarnation of the god Vishnu who is also widely worshipped by Hindu believers. In India, there is a strong influence of the Ramayana in movies, shows and theatres.

Myths are a great reflection of societies and allow us to gain deeper insight on the region’s landscapes. There are many connections to the natural world through the setting and characters of myths. The significance of landscape is also depicted through assigning animals with anthropomorphic qualities. Many ancient Chinese narratives portray China and it’s landscape. Chinese myths also use a five-part model in their myths that explain the creation of the world. This model was used in the creation of China’s hierarchical structure with a complex system of social connections.

Below is a video attached on Rama and Ramayan! It does a great job on explaining the significance of Rama and who he was. Rama was also included in Buddhist myths as well.