(BTU) Lesson Topic 2: Mystifying Myths

Another type of short story is the myth. A myth is a made-up story that explains the existence of a natural phenomenon and often includes gods, goddesses, or other supernatural characters.

There are different types of myths. Some myths, such as Greek myths, include stories about supernatural beings. Greek myths also have a deeper meaning and might teach a lesson. Other myths, such as the Native American creation myths, reveal a perspective about why and how natural events in the world happen. For example, there are Native American myths explaining how the earth was formed and how death started occurring in the world.

Similar to a tall tale, myths can be exaggerated and include fictional elements to entertain the reader. However, the focus of myths is more on a natural element or phenomenon whereas tall tales focus on the embellished story of a particular person. 

Read the following Native American Creation myth titled "The Earth on Turtle's Back," Links to an external site. and as you read, answer the following questions in order to prepare for your unit test. 

1. How does the theme of belonging appear in this myth?
2. Who does not feel like he or she belongs?
3. Is the setting implied or stated?
4. What is the tone?
5. Describe the characters in the short story.
6. What is the plot of this myth?
7. What types of conflict appear in this myth?
8. What is the point of view?
9. What is the tone?
10. Are there any other themes you can identify?

Now, read through some of the other myths below. Note the elements that appear in a myth and how myths are different from tall tales.

• Native American Myths of Creation Links to an external site.
• Greek Myths Links to an external site.

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