Definition, Characteristics and Types of Myths

INDEPHEDIA.com - Myth comes from the word mythos (Greek) which means something that is revealed.

The term myth has quite a lot of meanings. Starting from general understanding, to understanding based on various experts.

Myth is part of a folklore in the form of stories set in the past, containing interpretations of the universe.

This interpretation is expressed in the story and is considered to have really happened by those who own the story or their adherents.

Myth in a broader sense can refer to a traditional story or - in everyday conversation - a misguided thing in society or an imaginary entity.

In another sense, myth is defined as a story that has symbolic nature and tells a series of real and imaginary stories.

In the Big Indonesian Dictionary (KBBI), myth is a nation's story about ancient gods and heroes, containing interpretations of the origins of the universe, humans and nations.

Myths can arise as exaggerated accounts of historical events, as allegories or personifications of natural phenomena, or as explanations of rituals.

Events are propagated to convey religious experiences or ideals, to model certain traits.

Examples of myths, such as the creation of the world and the existence of both real and unreal beings in it.

In general, myths tell about the occurrence of the universe and its topography, the state of the world and its inhabitants, descriptions of mythological creatures and so on.

A myth does not have to be supported by scientific facts. Therefore, the word myth is often used to refer to beliefs that are not based on scientific facts, or are interpreted incorrectly.

However, this word has a different meaning when based on scientific studies. Because, myth can mean a story that serves to describe the fundamental insights of a culture.

Myths

1). The story that is believed to have really happened by the community of supporters.

2). Even though it sometimes seems strange, for some people it is very meaningful and important.

3). The story is simple, because it only consists of a few simple motives and plots.

4). Usually in the narrative activities will be accompanied by certain ceremonies.

5). People who believe in it consider the stories contained in it to be sacred and sacred.

6). Usually has a background time and place in ancient times.

7). The characters in the story are related to important beings in the cultural sense in the society concerned.

8). Its resilience depends on the strength and trust of the people.

Types of Myths

1). The Creation Myth, which tells the story of the creation of a universe that did not exist before.

2). The Cosmogenic myth that tells about the creation of the universe.

3). The Myth of Origins tells of the origin or beginning of an animal, the type of plant, an institution, place, name and a series of others.

4). Theogynic myths are stories told about gods and supernatural beings.

5). Anthropogonic myths are related to the occurrence of humans.

6). Myths related to transformation discuss changes in human and world conditions in the future.

Myth Function

1). Aims to develop symbols that are full of meaning and also explain the environmental phenomena encountered.

2). Aims as a guide for the supporting community. Nothing but to foster social solidarity among members.

This is so that he can differentiate between one community and another.

3). Aims as the most effective means of education. In particular to strengthen and instill certain cultural values, social norms and beliefs. (*)