9th Literature

This Blog will be used to keep Mrs. Guinn's students abreast of the activities happening within the classroom.

Monday, May 01, 2006

Myth Stuff

Traditional Epic
The Epic Style

a. The author begins by stating the theme and uses someone who is all knowing and wise to help him in his undertaking.
b. The story starts in the middle of the action, in media res, and at a critical point; the events that happened before the narrative's opening are introduced later on.
The Setting
The setting of the epic is vast in scope, sometimes worldwide and even beyond.
The Hero
A figure of great national or international importance.
The Action
The action of the epic involves heroic deeds in battle, such as a long hard journey or a war.
The Supernatural
The gods or other supernatural beings take an interest and an active part in the great deeds performed in the epic.
Point of View
Often the point of view is in third person (standing outside looking in through the window) with little comment or opinion. Usually the author is objective (looks at both sides of an issue) in his presentation of the situation and characters.
Writing a Myth
You will create a myth which incorporates one element from each of the four categories below.
Once you have chosen your four digit number (last four digits of your phone number), circle the corresponding elements.
Take these four elements and incorporate them into a myth.
Stay with the four numbers that you picked.

Key Character or Hero
0. a troll
1. a wizard
2. a seafarer
3. a queen/king from an ancient world
4. a soldier
5. a priest or nun
6. a bandit or thief
7. a searcher or wanderer
8. a mermaid
9. a goddess
Key Setting
0. underwater
1. a planet in outer space
2. a mountainous island
3. an underground cavern
4. a crowded bazaar or marketplace
5. ancient temple ruins
6. a jungle
7. a peasant's cottage
8. a castle
9. a river or enchanted lake

Important Object
0. a secret potion
1. an amulet (something worn as a charm against evil.
2. a secret scroll or manuscript
3. a magic ring
4. a door with hieroglyphics
5. a fountain
6. a charm or magic saying
7. a staff or walking stick
8. a book of knowledge
9. a sacred animal
Key Theme
0. Carpe Diem (seize the day)
1. the truth will surface
2. justice prevails
3. search inside for wisdom
4. life is a journey
5. eternal friendships
6. descent into the underworld
7. love conquers all
8. trust one's intuition
9. overcoming great obstacles