Thousands of years have passed since the days of Homer and Virgil, and the stories of mighty heroes like Odysseus and Theseus were told, yet these persist today. Whether through inspiration, parallel ideas and themes, or direct references to classic heroes and myths, these remain a well-known and valued aspect of media and culture. The fact that these are still extremely relatable and relevant even today shows that no matter how much technology has advanced and humanity has evolved, perhaps human nature is still the same at the core. Ancient myths are woven with difficult themes and questions that applied to heroes of the past and still apply to men today. Themes of resilience, loyalty and identity, and questions about morality, ambition and more are still being wrestled with today. These essential questions about human nature are still pondered upon and are given more nuance as society progresses, making ancient myths a timeless window into the human soul and mind. While there were answers which ancient thinkers came up with themselves, these must continue to be questioned and contemplated by individuals of the present day. While the story of Icarus, for example, contains mythical elements of seeking to fly and demonstrate the consequences of flying too high, the practical lessons at the heart of the myth warning against ambition and recklessness are applicable to all men. These stories may be ancient, but their conflicts are familiar. Modern inquiry of ancient stories also allows for broader understanding on topics yet showing how myths are relevant to all generations. We continue telling and reading ancient stories not because there is a loss of new ideas, but because these provide endless expansion on understanding of human nature and behavior. Beneath all the curses, godly strength and adventures of heroes, they are humans with fatal flaws and desires like everyone else.
Add comment
Comments