The Mythologies

Mythology comprises diverse narrative types across global cultures—such as Greek, Norse, Hindu, and Mayan—that explain natural phenomena, historical events, or human behavior. Core types include etiological (origins), cosmogonic (creation), heroic (quests), divine (gods/goddesses), and psychological myths. These stories, ranging from flood narratives to tales of tricksters, serve to explain the world and establish cultural values. 

Here is a breakdown of the types of mythology:

Functional Types of Myths

• Etiological (Origin) Myths: Explain the reasons for specific natural phenomena, cultural practices, or why things are the way they are. Examples include tales of how the seasons were created or why the sycamore tree is home to a specific goddess.

• Cosmogonic/Creation Myths: Detail the origin of the universe, the earth, and human existence.

• Divine/Theogonic Myths: Focus on the lives, relationships, and battles of gods and goddesses, often explaining their roles in the cosmos.

• Heroic Myths: Narrate the adventures, journeys, and trials of human or demigod heroes, such as the quests of Hercules or Odysseus.

• Historical/Legendary Myths: Often rooted in some real event, these stories distort or enhance history to provide deeper, symbolic meaning.

• Psychological Myths: Explore human emotions, behaviors, and the internal journey from the known to the unknown.

• Eschatological Myths: Focus on the end of the world or the ultimate destiny of humanity. 

Regional and Cultural Mythologies

• Greek & Roman: Known for a complex pantheon of anthropomorphic gods and heroes (e.g., Zeus, Apollo, Jupiter).

• Norse: Developed by Vikings, featuring gods like Odin and Thor, focused on fate and cosmic battle.

• Hindu: Centered on concepts of birth, rebirth, and a complex hierarchy of deities (e.g., Shiva, Vishnu).

• Celtic: Polytheistic stories often recorded by Christian monks, rich in magic and nature.

• Mayan: Focused on the interactions between gods and mortals, often relating to agricultural cycles.

• Egyptian: Heavily involved with the afterlife, the sun (Ra), and the Nile. 

Common Mythological Motifs

• Trickster Figures: Characters who break rules, act selfishly, or cause trouble, like Loki (Norse) or Hermes (Greek).

• Flood Myths: Tales of a catastrophic deluge meant to cleanse the earth, common in many cultures.

• Dying and Rising Gods: Symbolic narratives representing agricultural cycles and rejuvenation.

• Cosmic Battles (Chaoskampf): Stories of a hero or god battling a chaotic beast, such as a dragon or serpent.