World Mythology Course Plan for Grade 11
Course Introduction
Welcome to the World Mythology course! This engaging and interactive program is designed for Grade 11 students and aims to explore the rich tapestry of myths from diverse cultures around the globe. Myths are foundational narratives that provide insight into human experience, societal values, and the natural world. The course will delve into Greek, Roman, Norse, Egyptian, Hindu, African, Native American, and Asian mythologies, allowing students to understand cultural contexts, symbolism, archetypes, and the enduring relevance of myths.
Course Goals
- To understand the role and function of myths in various cultures.
- To recognize and analyze common themes and archetypes across different mythologies.
- To develop critical thinking and analytical skills through the interpretation of mythological texts.
- To appreciate the cultural significance and historical contexts of world myths.
Course Aims
- Cultural Literacy: Equip students with knowledge of significant mythological narratives from around the world.
- Comparative Analysis: Foster the ability to compare and contrast different myths and their cultural implications.
- Creative Expression: Encourage students to create their own mythological stories or reinterpret existing myths.
- Communication Skills: Develop the ability to articulate thoughts and analyses in discussions and written assignments.
Course Structure
The course is divided into four modules, with a total of 30 lessons, each designed to build upon the previous content.
Module 1: Introduction to Myths (Lessons 1-5)
Lesson 1: What is Myth?
- Definitions and characteristics of myths
- The purpose and significance of myths across cultures
Lesson 2: Types of Myths
- Creation myths, hero myths, and folktales
- Differences between myths, legends, and fables
Lesson 3: The Role of Myth in Culture
- Myth and religion
- Myths as social and moral guidelines
Lesson 4: Common Themes in World Mythology
- Themes of creation, destruction, love, and fate
Lesson 5: Introduction to Mythical Archetypes
- Joseph Campbell's "Hero's Journey"
- Common archetypes (the hero, the mentor, the trickster)
Module 2: European Mythologies (Lessons 6-12)
Lesson 6: Greek Mythology
- Overview of key gods and goddesses
- The importance of mythology in Ancient Greece
Lesson 7: Roman Mythology
- Influence of Greek mythology on Roman beliefs
- Key figures in Roman mythology
Lesson 8: Norse Mythology
- Major gods in Norse mythology (Odin, Thor, Loki)
- The creation and destruction in Norse myths
Lesson 9: Myths of the Celts
- Overview of Celtic mythology
- Key figures like the Morrigan and Cuchulainn
Lesson 10: Comparative Analysis of European Myths
- Similarities and differences between Greek, Roman, and Norse myths
Lesson 11: Mythology in Literature
- Exploration of classic works influenced by mythology
- Impact on modern storytelling
Lesson 12: Reflective Assignment
- Comparative essay on a selected myth from two European cultures
Module 3: World Mythologies (Lessons 13-20)
Lesson 13: Egyptian Mythology
- Major deities (Ra, Osiris, Isis)
- Myths connected to life after death
Lesson 14: African Mythology
- Overview of various African cultures and their myths
- Key themes of nature and ancestry
Lesson 15: Native American Mythology
- Exploration of creation stories and cultural heroes
- Diversity among tribes and influences on spirituality
Lesson 16: Hindu Mythology
- Key texts (Vedas, Mahabharata, Ramayana)
- Deities and their significance
Lesson 17: Asian Mythology
- Chinese mythological figures (Pangu, the Dragon King)
- Myth in Japanese culture (Shinto, kami)
Lesson 18: Mythology and Modern Culture
- Influence of mythology in popular media (film, literature, art)
Lesson 19: Group Presentation Preparation
- Students select a world mythology and prepare presentations
Lesson 20: Group Presentations
- Presentations on various mythologies by student groups
Module 4: The Relevance of Myths Today (Lessons 21-30)
Lesson 21: Myths and Psychology
- Carl Jung’s interpretation of archetypes
- Myths in shaping identity and human experience
Lesson 22: Storytelling and Adaptation
- Analyzing adaptations of myths in contemporary media
Lesson 23: Creative Writing Workshop
- Students create their own mythological stories
Lesson 24: The Role of Myths in Social Commentary
- How myths reflect societal issues
Lesson 25: Myths in Religion and Ethics
- Exploration of moral lessons and ethical dilemmas in myths
Lesson 26: Field Trip (Virtual or Real)
- Visit local museum or attend a lecture on mythological history
Lesson 27: Final Project Guidelines
- Explanation of final project requirements
Lesson 28: Work on Final Projects
- In-class time for project development and peer review
Lesson 29: Final Project Presentations
- Students present their final projects exploring chosen myths
Lesson 30: Course Reflection and Discussion
- Open discussion on all learned topics, feedback, and course wrap-up
References
- Campbell, J. (1949). The Hero with a Thousand Faces. Princeton University Press.
- Eliade, M. (1963). Myth and Reality. Harper & Row.
- Eddison, E. R. (1958). A Sagas of the Northlands. A. M. S. Press.
- Graves, R. (1955). The Greek Myths. Penguin Books.
- Larrington, C. (1999). The Poetic Edda. Oxford University Press.
- Murdock, M. (2005). The Book of Sacred Myths and Legends. Vireo Books.
- Turner, C. (2017). The World of Myth: An Anthology. Oxford University Press.
This course plan aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of world mythology, encouraging students to draw connections and cultivate an appreciation for literary traditions that transcend time and geography.