mythology & our interpretation of history
How do these ancient myths impact our own understanding of history? These myths are great tools that help us better learn and discover history that might otherwise be forever unknowable to us.
People are more apt to remember fun stories and tales of grandeur versus dates and facts. One key aspect of the myth is that it appears to be simply a story. There is usually a hero who accomplishes a great deed and there is also usually a moral. These things are more entertaining for people to hear, enjoy, and then remember. It was easier for the tale of the Minotaur and Labyrinth to be passed down so many years because it was interesting and enjoyable. Who would forget the story once hearing it?
The excavation of Knossos may have been meaningless without the tale of the Minotaur. The myth gives us something to associate the Palace with. There are key aspects of Minoan civilization that can be lined up with things associated with the myth that can lead us to better piece together history and in turn, enhance our understanding of ancient times.
People are more apt to remember fun stories and tales of grandeur versus dates and facts. One key aspect of the myth is that it appears to be simply a story. There is usually a hero who accomplishes a great deed and there is also usually a moral. These things are more entertaining for people to hear, enjoy, and then remember. It was easier for the tale of the Minotaur and Labyrinth to be passed down so many years because it was interesting and enjoyable. Who would forget the story once hearing it?
The excavation of Knossos may have been meaningless without the tale of the Minotaur. The myth gives us something to associate the Palace with. There are key aspects of Minoan civilization that can be lined up with things associated with the myth that can lead us to better piece together history and in turn, enhance our understanding of ancient times.