Retelling of myths

Definition

Retelling of myths refers to the reimagining or reinterpretation of traditional narratives that explain natural phenomena, cultural beliefs, or societal values through the lens of contemporary perspectives. This practice often blends elements of reality and fantasy, allowing for a new understanding of age-old stories and their significance in modern contexts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Retellings of myths can serve as a way to make ancient stories relevant to contemporary audiences by exploring themes like identity, power, and morality in today's context.
2. This practice allows for diverse interpretations and adaptations, showcasing different cultures' values and belief systems while maintaining the essence of the original myth.
3. Many modern authors and creators use retellings as a way to challenge traditional narratives, giving voice to marginalized characters or perspectives that were previously overlooked.
4. Retelling myths often involves a fusion of genres, combining elements of fantasy with realism, creating a narrative space where the extraordinary feels relatable.
5. Popular examples include novels and films that take well-known myths and weave them into modern settings, illustrating how these timeless stories can evolve over time.

Review Questions

• How do retellings of myths reflect contemporary issues and themes within society?
  • Retellings of myths often highlight contemporary issues such as identity, social justice, and personal struggles by placing traditional narratives in modern contexts. This connection allows audiences to relate to the characters and themes on a personal level. For instance, by reinterpreting the hero's journey through the lens of current societal challenges, these retellings can reveal deeper insights into human experiences and the timelessness of these age-old stories.
• Discuss how symbolism plays a role in the retelling of myths and enhances the meaning of the narratives.
  • Symbolism is crucial in retelling myths because it adds layers of meaning to the narrative. When authors reinterpret myths, they often infuse new symbols that resonate with contemporary audiences while still reflecting the original story's essence. For example, a modern retelling might use urban landscapes to symbolize chaos or disconnection in contrast to nature's beauty in classic myths. This interplay between old symbols and new interpretations enriches the reader's understanding and invites deeper analysis of both the myth and its retelling.
• Evaluate the impact of intertextuality on the retelling of myths and how it shapes audience perceptions.
  • Intertextuality significantly impacts how retellings are perceived by audiences as it creates connections between the original myth and its new adaptations. When a retelling references earlier works or incorporates elements from various texts, it invites readers to draw comparisons and contrasts that enhance their understanding. This can lead to a richer interpretation where audiences see familiar themes from fresh angles or question established narratives. As intertextual connections unfold, they encourage critical thinking about how stories evolve and what they reveal about both past and present societies.

Related terms

Mythology: A collection of myths, especially one belonging to a particular religious or cultural tradition, that illustrates the values, beliefs, and practices of a society.

Symbolism:

The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities, often employed in myths to convey deeper meanings and moral lessons.

Intertextuality:

The relationship between texts, where one text references or influences another, often seen in retellings that draw from original myths while incorporating new elements.