Here's what typically makes a story a myth:
* Explains the world: Myths often attempt to explain natural phenomena, the origins of humanity, cultural customs, or the existence of gods and supernatural beings.
* Features supernatural beings: Gods, goddesses, demons, monsters, and other fantastical creatures are common in myths.
* Oral tradition: Myths are often passed down through generations by word of mouth, making them fluid and evolving over time.
* Symbolic and allegorical: Myths frequently employ symbolism and allegory to convey deeper meanings and moral lessons.
* Focus on the collective: Myths often serve to reinforce societal values, beliefs, and rituals, unifying communities through shared stories.
Examples of myth genres:
* Creation myths: These stories explain the origins of the universe and life.
* Cosmogonic myths: These myths tell of the creation of the world.
* Hero myths: These stories focus on the exploits of legendary heroes who often perform great deeds and overcome challenges.
* Trickster myths: These stories feature mischievous characters who often break societal rules and challenge authority figures.
The Importance of Context:
It's important to remember that the definition of a myth can vary depending on the culture and time period. What might be considered a myth in one culture could be a historical event in another.
Distinguishing Myths from Other Genres:
Myths can be similar to other genres, such as:
* Folklore: Folklore often focuses on everyday life and includes legends, fairy tales, and proverbs.
* Legends: Legends are stories that often have a historical basis, but they are embellished with supernatural elements.
* Fantasy: Fantasy stories are often inspired by myths but tend to be more imaginative and less focused on explaining the world.
Ultimately, the best way to define the myth genre is to understand its purpose and impact on its respective culture.