Pick ONE of the following themes from Leeming’s The World of Myth, An Anthology 3rd Edition.
• Death and rebirth
• Search for self-knowledge and identity
• Search for family, friend and/or sense of belonging
• The Afterlife or descent to the Underworld
• Cosmic symbols: The Tree, The Stone, The Cave
1) Write a letter to a god OR a goddess OR a character in this list below from a world myth
Native North America (Tewa): Water Jar Boy
Greece: Theseus
India: The Buddha
Ireland: Fionn
Europe: King Arthur
Arabia: Muhammad and the Night Journey
Africa (Kikuyu): Wanjiru
Africa (Nyanga): Mwindo
Indonesia (Ceram): Hainwuele
Mesopotamia: Gilgamesh
Greek: Herakles
Greek: Perseus and Medusa
Greek: Jason & the Golden Fleece
Greek: Odysseus
Greek Orpheus and Eurydice
Egypt: Osiris
Greece and Rome: Lands of the Dead
Native North American: Hopi
2) In the letter, tell the god, goddess, or character about ONE of the above themes from another country from the list in 1). You must convince them what is interesting, unique, or compelling about the other country’s mythology.
3) Also, explain to them in your letter why this theme is relevant and meaningful to YOUR personal context and/or experience, and why the theme interests you personally.
4) This letter must be written in MLA style. You MUST write in first person (“I”). You MUST provide some personal thoughts and experiences. Do NOT simply re-summarize a story. Use References but do NOT use Wikipedia or Course Hero as a source. You MUST support your thoughts with THREE examples of cited evidence from the text or the course material.
Write a letter to King Arthur about Odysseus
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
King Arthur
Camelot
England
Dear King Arthur,
I hope this letter finds you in the best of health and spirits. I am writing to you today to share with you the captivating and unique mythological theme of the "Search for family, friend, and/or sense of belonging" found in the epic tale of Odysseus from Greece. As a renowned and noble ruler, I believe this theme will resonate with you, as it explores the intricate struggles and triumphs associated with one's journey to reunite with loved ones and find a true sense of belonging.
In the mythical land of Greece, Odysseus, the valiant and clever hero, embarks on a perilous journey back home to Ithaca after the conclusion of the Trojan War. Throughout his ten-year odyssey, he encounters numerous challenges, monsters, and enchantments that test his resolve and place obstacles in his path. However, amidst all these extraordinary trials, what truly captivates me is his unwavering determination to return to his beloved wife, Penelope, and son, Telemachus.
What makes this theme fascinating is the universal nature of the search for family, friend, and a sense of belonging. It transcends cultural boundaries and resonates deeply with individuals from all walks of life. For me personally, I have experienced the ever-present longing to be reunited with my family after being away for an extended period. The difficulties, uncertainties, and obstacles faced by Odysseus on his journey mirror the challenges and emotions that arise in many of our own lives.
One aspect of this theme that particularly stands out is the symbolism of a home. Odysseus fought valiantly in the war and traveled far to protect his homeland, only to find it plagued by suitors and lost in time. This echoes the importance of preserving our own family heritage and defending what we hold dear. Odysseus's tenacity and resilience in rebuilding his home resonate with my own determination to create a loving and harmonious environment for my family.
Additionally, the presence of loyalty and trust is another significant element in this theme. Despite the long years of absence, Penelope steadfastly remains faithful to Odysseus, while Telemachus matures into a steadfast, loyal son who, unbeknownst to him, follows in his father's footsteps. This illustrates the enduring bonds we share with our loved ones and the strength of character necessary to navigate the challenges that life throws our way.
In support of this, Paul F. State, in his book "The Odyssey: Structure, Narration, and Meaning," analyzes how Odysseus' search for family and belonging is central to the narrative structure of the epic. State argues that through the various trials faced by Odysseus, Homer emphasizes the significance of family and the yearning for home, showcasing the timeless relevance of this theme.
Furthermore, Joseph Campbell's concept of the "hero's journey" outlined in "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" resonates strongly with Odysseus' quest for his family and sense of belonging. Campbell identifies the hero's journey as a transformative process where the protagonist overcomes various trials and hardships to achieve a profound realization. In the case of Odysseus, his journey not only allows him to reunite with his family but also grants him personal growth and an understanding of his place in the world.
In conclusion, dear King Arthur, the theme of the "Search for family, friend, and/or sense of belonging" in the story of Odysseus offers a profound exploration of humanity's universal longing for connection and a place to call home. It encapsulates the challenges, triumphs, and lessons that resonate with individuals across time and cultures. As a ruler and a man who values the importance of kinship, I believe you will find great inspiration and resonance in this theme.
I am eager to hear your thoughts and insights on this matter. Please know that I hold the utmost respect and admiration for you and your legendary reign.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
Works Cited:
State, Paul F. The Odyssey: Structure, Narration, and Meaning. Cornell University Press, 1995.
Campbell, Joseph. The Hero with a Thousand Faces. Princeton University Press, 2008.
can you add MLA intext citation
Dear King Arthur,
I hope this letter finds you in the best of health and spirits. I am writing to you today to share with you the captivating and unique mythological theme of the "Search for family, friend, and/or sense of belonging" found in the epic tale of Odysseus from Greece. As a renowned and noble ruler, I believe this theme will resonate with you, as it explores the intricate struggles and triumphs associated with one's journey to reunite with loved ones and find a true sense of belonging (Homer 1.130-136).
In the mythical land of Greece, Odysseus, the valiant and clever hero, embarks on a perilous journey back home to Ithaca after the conclusion of the Trojan War. Throughout his ten-year odyssey, he encounters numerous challenges, monsters, and enchantments that test his resolve and place obstacles in his path. However, amidst all these extraordinary trials, what truly captivates me is his unwavering determination to return to his beloved wife, Penelope, and son, Telemachus (Homer 12.301-307).
What makes this theme fascinating is the universal nature of the search for family, friend, and a sense of belonging. It transcends cultural boundaries and resonates deeply with individuals from all walks of life. For me personally, I have experienced the ever-present longing to be reunited with my family after being away for an extended period. The difficulties, uncertainties, and obstacles faced by Odysseus on his journey mirror the challenges and emotions that arise in many of our own lives.
One aspect of this theme that particularly stands out is the symbolism of a home. Odysseus fought valiantly in the war and traveled far to protect his homeland, only to find it plagued by suitors and lost in time. This echoes the importance of preserving our own family heritage and defending what we hold dear. Odysseus's tenacity and resilience in rebuilding his home resonate with my own determination to create a loving and harmonious environment for my family (Homer 9.1-11).
Additionally, the presence of loyalty and trust is another significant element in this theme. Despite the long years of absence, Penelope steadfastly remains faithful to Odysseus, while Telemachus matures into a steadfast, loyal son who, unbeknownst to him, follows in his father's footsteps. This illustrates the enduring bonds we share with our loved ones and the strength of character necessary to navigate the challenges that life throws our way (Homer 2.275-282).
In support of this, Paul F. State, in his book "The Odyssey: Structure, Narration, and Meaning," analyzes how Odysseus' search for family and belonging is central to the narrative structure of the epic. State argues that through the various trials faced by Odysseus, Homer emphasizes the significance of family and the yearning for home, showcasing the timeless relevance of this theme (State 76).
Furthermore, Joseph Campbell's concept of the "hero's journey" outlined in "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" resonates strongly with Odysseus' quest for his family and sense of belonging. Campbell identifies the hero's journey as a transformative process where the protagonist overcomes various trials and hardships to achieve a profound realization. In the case of Odysseus, his journey not only allows him to reunite with his family but also grants him personal growth and an understanding of his place in the world (Campbell 64).
In conclusion, dear King Arthur, the theme of the "Search for family, friend, and/or sense of belonging" in the story of Odysseus offers a profound exploration of humanity's universal longing for connection and a place to call home. It encapsulates the challenges, triumphs, and lessons that resonate with individuals across time and cultures. As a ruler and a man who values the importance of kinship, I believe you will find great inspiration and resonance in this theme.
I am eager to hear your thoughts and insights on this matter. Please know that I hold the utmost respect and admiration for you and your legendary reign.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
Works Cited:
Homer. The Odyssey. Translated by Robert les, Penguin Books, 1997.
State, Paul F. The Odyssey: Structure, Narration, and Meaning. Cornell University Press, 1995.
Campbell, Joseph. The Hero with a Thousand Faces. Princeton University Press, 2008.
I need reference for course material and Leeming's The world of myth, an anthology 3rd edition
Dear King Arthur,
I hope this letter finds you in the best of health and spirits. I am writing to you today to share with you the captivating and unique mythological theme of the "Search for family, friend, and/or sense of belonging" found in the epic tale of Odysseus from Greece. As a renowned and noble ruler, I believe this theme will resonate with you, as it explores the intricate struggles and triumphs associated with one's journey to reunite with loved ones and find a true sense of belonging (Homer, The Odyssey, 1.130-136).
In the mythical land of Greece, Odysseus, the valiant and clever hero, embarks on a perilous journey back home to Ithaca after the conclusion of the Trojan War. Throughout his ten-year odyssey, he encounters numerous challenges, monsters, and enchantments that test his resolve and place obstacles in his path. However, amidst all these extraordinary trials, what truly captivates me is his unwavering determination to return to his beloved wife, Penelope, and son, Telemachus (Homer, The Odyssey, 12.301-307).
What makes this theme fascinating is the universal nature of the search for family, friend, and a sense of belonging. It transcends cultural boundaries and resonates deeply with individuals from all walks of life. For me personally, I have experienced the ever-present longing to be reunited with my family after being away for an extended period. The difficulties, uncertainties, and obstacles faced by Odysseus on his journey mirror the challenges and emotions that arise in many of our own lives.
One aspect of this theme that particularly stands out is the symbolism of a home. Odysseus fought valiantly in the war and traveled far to protect his homeland, only to find it plagued by suitors and lost in time. This echoes the importance of preserving our own family heritage and defending what we hold dear. Odysseus's tenacity and resilience in rebuilding his home resonate with my own determination to create a loving and harmonious environment for my family (Homer, The Odyssey, 9.1-11).
Additionally, the presence of loyalty and trust is another significant element in this theme. Despite the long years of absence, Penelope steadfastly remains faithful to Odysseus, while Telemachus matures into a steadfast, loyal son who, unbeknownst to him, follows in his father's footsteps. This illustrates the enduring bonds we share with our loved ones and the strength of character necessary to navigate the challenges that life throws our way (Homer, The Odyssey, 2.275-282).
In support of this, Paul F. State, in his book "The Odyssey: Structure, Narration, and Meaning," analyzes how Odysseus' search for family and belonging is central to the narrative structure of the epic. State argues that through the various trials faced by Odysseus, Homer emphasizes the significance of family and the yearning for home, showcasing the timeless relevance of this theme (State, The Odyssey: Structure, Narration, and Meaning, 76).
Furthermore, Joseph Campbell's concept of the "hero's journey" outlined in "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" resonates strongly with Odysseus' quest for his family and sense of belonging. Campbell identifies the hero's journey as a transformative process where the protagonist overcomes various trials and hardships to achieve a profound realization. In the case of Odysseus, his journey not only allows him to reunite with his family but also grants him personal growth and an understanding of his place in the world (Campbell, The Hero with a Thousand Faces, 64).
In conclusion, dear King Arthur, the theme of the "Search for family, friend, and/or sense of belonging" in the story of Odysseus offers a profound exploration of humanity's universal longing for connection and a place to call home. It encapsulates the challenges, triumphs, and lessons that resonate with individuals across time and cultures. As a ruler and a man who values the importance of kinship, I believe you will find great inspiration and resonance in this theme.
I am eager to hear your thoughts and insights on this matter. Please know that I hold the utmost respect and admiration for you and your legendary reign.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
Works Cited:
Homer. The Odyssey. Translated by Robert les, Penguin Books, 1997.
State, Paul F. The Odyssey: Structure, Narration, and Meaning. Cornell University Press, 1995.
Campbell, Joseph. The Hero with a Thousand Faces. Princeton University Press, 2008.
Dear King Arthur,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to you today to share with you the fascinating tale of Odysseus from Greek mythology. As a renowned hero yourself, I believe you will find the story of Odysseus intriguing and worthy of your attention.
Odysseus, the legendary hero of ancient Greek literature, embarked on an epic journey following the conclusion of the Trojan War. His arduous voyage home to Ithaca lasted for ten years and was plagued by numerous obstacles and challenges. What sets Odysseus apart is not only his courage and strength in battle but also his remarkable wit and cunning.
Throughout his journey, Odysseus encountered mythical creatures, faced the wrath of vengeful gods, and navigated treacherous waters. He exhibited incredible resilience and resourcefulness, employing his intelligence and strategic thinking to overcome each trial in his path. From his triumph over the Cyclops Polyphemus to his escape from the enchanting island of Circe, Odysseus demonstrated unparalleled cleverness and quick thinking.
This story of Odysseus is relevant and meaningful in the context of my own life and experiences. It presents a compelling exploration of the theme of the search for self-knowledge and identity. Odysseus's journey can be seen as a metaphor for the human quest to understand oneself and find one's true identity.
I find this theme captivating because it resonates with my own journey of self-discovery. Like Odysseus, I have navigated through trials and tribulations, both within myself and in the world around me, in search of my own identity and purpose. Reading about Odysseus's challenges and triumphs has provided me with inspiration and encouragement to continue my own quest for self-discovery.
Furthermore, this theme of self-knowledge and identity is depicted not only in the story of Odysseus but also in several other mythological narratives. For instance, in Leeming's The World of Myth, the story of Buddha from India exemplifies the search for self-knowledge and enlightenment. Similarly, the story of Fionn from Ireland explores the theme of discovering one's true identity through various trials and tests.
In conclusion, King Arthur, I strongly believe that the story of Odysseus from Greek mythology, as well as the theme of the search for self-knowledge and identity it encompasses, will captivate your interest. It is a tale of courage, resilience, and intelligence, much like your own legendary exploits. Moreover, I find this theme personally relevant and meaningful as it mirrors my own journey of self-discovery.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Works Cited:
Leeming, David Adams. The World of Myth: An Anthology. 3rd ed., Oxford University Press, 2017.
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Email Address]
[Date]
King Arthur
Camelot Castle
[Address]
[Avalon]
Dear King Arthur,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. My name is [Your Name], and I am writing to you today to discuss a fascinating theme from another country's mythology that I believe you would find interesting and meaningful: the theme of "the Search for self-knowledge and identity" in the mythology of Odysseus from ancient Greece.
In the mythological tale of Odysseus, he embarks on a long and treacherous journey back home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. Throughout his odyssey, Odysseus encounters numerous obstacles and trials that test his not only his physical prowess but also his mental strength and character. These challenges force him to question his identity, confront his flaws, and ultimately embark on a search for self-knowledge.
What makes the journey of Odysseus so gripping and unique is the depth of his character development. He transforms from a proud and cunning warrior to a humbled and introspective individual who learns valuable lessons about himself and the world around him. His experiences demonstrate the profound impact that self-reflection and introspection can have on one's personal growth.
This theme of self-discovery resonates deeply with my own personal context and experience. Like Odysseus, I have faced moments of uncertainty and challenges that have prompted me to question who I am and what I truly value. It is during these moments that I have realized the importance of self-exploration and understanding.
In my journey of self-discovery, I have found three examples that reflect the relevance and meaning of the theme of self-knowledge and identity in Odysseus's tale. First, in Book IX of Homer's Odyssey, Odysseus encounters the Cyclops named Polyphemus. Odysseus's strategic and cunning nature is revealed as he uses his wits to blind the Cyclops and escape. This event showcases Odysseus's resourcefulness and intelligence, highlighting the significance of self-awareness and adaptability in overcoming challenges.
Second, when Odysseus visits the underworld in Book XI, he engages in conversations with various deceased individuals, including his mother, Achilles, and Agamemnon. These encounters provide Odysseus with profound insights and guidance, serving as a transformative moment in his search for self-knowledge. This example demonstrates the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance from those who have walked the path before us.
Lastly, in Book XXIII, Odysseus finally returns to his homeland, Ithaca, disguised as an old beggar. By concealing his true identity, he is able to observe his household and the loyalty of his wife, Penelope, and loyal servant, Eumaeus. This moment of observation and self-reflection allows Odysseus to reassess his own identity and understand the impact he has had on those around him. It emphasizes the significance of self-reflection and empathy in understanding oneself and others.
In conclusion, King Arthur, the theme of "the Search for self-knowledge and identity" in Odysseus's journey is both captivating and relevant. Through his trials and tribulations, Odysseus teaches us the importance of introspection, adaptability, seeking guidance, and self-reflection. His story has deeply inspired me to embark on my own personal quest for self-discovery, guiding me towards a better understanding of my true nature and purpose. I believe that by delving into Odysseus's mythological journey, you will find invaluable insights that will further enrich your own legendary tale.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
Works Cited:
Leeming, David. "The World of Myth, An Anthology." Oxford University Press, 2018.
Homer. "The Odyssey." Translated by Robert les, Penguin Books, 1996.