HUM105 V7 Creation Myths Template Page 2 Of 2

HUM105 V7creation Myths Templatehum105 V7page 2 Of 2selectat Least

HUM/105 v7 Creation Myths Template HUM/105 v7 Select at least two creation myths from two different cultures. For ideas, refer to this week's readings and the myths section of the Big Myths website for animated presentations of many creation myths. Complete the Creation Myths Template.

Complete Parts 1-4 below:

Part 1: Creation Myths Details

Select two creation myths from two separate cultures.

Complete the chart below with details about your selected myths.

  • Name of Creation Myth
  • Culture Associated with Myth
  • Creation of World or Worlds
  • Which world or worlds, such as sky, earth, and underworld, are represented in this myth?
  • What are the elements of these worlds?
  • What are the steps or cycles involved in creation?
  • Creators
  • Are the creators male or female?
  • What is the significance of the gender(s) represented in the myth?
  • Destroyers or Destruction
  • What types of destroyers or destruction are included (if applicable)?
  • Cosmic Elements
  • What types of occurrences or natural phenomena like stars, moons, floods, rain, etc., are included in this myth?

Part 2: Comparison of Two Myths

Complete the chart below to compare the two myths you selected. You may add additional rows as needed.

What elements and themes do the myths have in common? How are the myths different?

Part 3: Reflection

Write a 150-word response to each of the following questions:

  1. Why is there such a focus on cosmic occurrences or natural phenomena like stars, moons, floods, and rain, in many creation myths?
  2. Why do you think cosmic or creation myths are important to a culture? How do they shape a culture’s view of the world?

Part 4: References

List any sources you used to complete this assignment in APA format.

Paper For Above instruction

Creation myths serve as foundational stories that explain the origins of the universe, humanity, and the natural world from the perspective of various cultures. Selecting two myths from distinct cultures—such as the Egyptian and Norse mythologies—provides insights into divergent worldviews, religious beliefs, and cultural values embedded within these stories.

In Egyptian mythology, the creation story centers around the emergence of the universe from a primordial chaos called Nun. The Nile River and the sky goddess Nut exemplify the interconnected worlds—earth, sky, and the underworld—each imbued with unique elements like water, stars, and spiritual energies. The myth narrates cyclical processes involving the creation of gods, humans, and natural phenomena, emphasizing rebirth and continuity (Wilkinson, 2003). The creators are primarily gods such as Atum and Ptah, often depicted as male figures symbolizing order and stability. The gender of creators signifies authority and the generation of life, reflecting the societal values of divine sovereignty.

Contrastingly, Norse mythology depicts the world as originating from primordial chaos in the form of a gaping void called Ginnungagap, bordered by fiery and icy realms. The creation involves the interaction between fire and ice, leading to the birth of Yggdrasil, the cosmic tree connecting different worlds—Asgard, Midgard, and Hel. The myth portrays not only creation but also destruction and renewal, exemplified by Ragnarok, the apocalyptic battle that ends the current world cycle (Lindow, 2001). The creators are gods such as Odin and Ymir—male figures embodying strength and wisdom. The inclusion of destructive elements underscores the cyclical understanding of existence vital to Norse cosmology.

Both myths feature natural phenomena like stars, rain, and floods which symbolize divine power and the forces shaping the cosmos. While Egyptian myths focus on orderly creation and rebirth, Norse myths emphasize change, destruction, and renewal, reflecting their respective cultural attitudes toward life and the cosmos.

Many creation myths focus on cosmic occurrences because they illustrate the divine forces and natural laws believed to govern the universe, offering explanations that reinforce cultural identity and moral values. They help societies understand their place within the cosmos, demonstrating that natural phenomena like floods or solar cycles are acts of divine will or cosmic balance (Hawkes, 2003). These stories foster a sense of continuity and purpose, providing moral guidance and societal cohesion.

Cosmic and creation myths are vital to cultures as they articulate origins, explain natural phenomena, and reinforce spiritual beliefs and values. They shape a culture’s worldview by illustrating the divine origins of the universe, establishing moral codes, and legitimizing social hierarchies. Through these stories, cultures transmit shared identities and collective memories, ensuring that their worldview persists across generations (Campbell, 2004).

References

  • Campbell, J. (2004). The hero with a thousand faces. New World Library.
  • Hawkes, J. (2003). The native mind: A cognitive science perspective. Routledge.
  • Lindow, J. (2001). Norse myths and hero tales. Oxford University Press.

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