unit 1 and 2

Totemism

A belief system in which a group or clan identifies with a specific animal, plant, or natural object that represents their identity and spiritual connection.

animism

The belief that all living things and natural forces have spirits or souls, including animals, plants, rivers, mountains, and weather.

taboo

A social or religious prohibition against certain actions, objects, or behaviors that are considered sacred, dangerous, or forbidden.

ritual

A formal, repeated action or ceremony performed to connect with the sacred, honor the divine, mark important events, or maintain social order.

divination

The practice of seeking knowledge of the future or divine will through signs, omens, dreams, or special tools (such as astrology or reading bones).

myth

A sacred story that explains cosmic truths, origins, or the actions of gods and supernatural beings and is believed to hold religious meaning.

fable

A short fictional story, often with animals as characters, that teaches a clear moral lesson.

legend

A story based on a historical figure or event that has been exaggerated over time and may include supernatural elements.

folklore

The traditional stories, customs, beliefs, and practices of a culture, passed down orally from generation to generation.v

creation

A myth that explains how the world, humans, or the universe began.

alienation

A myth that explains why humans are separated from the divine or from a perfect state, often involving disobedience or loss of innocence.

hero

A myth that follows a hero’s journey, focusing on trials, challenges, and transformation that benefit the community.

eschatological

about the end of all life, or life as humans know it

monomyth

in which a hero leaves the ordinary world, faces trials, undergoes transformation, and returns with knowledge or power

Myths are stories that explain the origins of the world, natural phenomena, human behavior, moral values, and humanity’s relationship with the divine.

what is the purpose of a myth?

• A call to adventure

• Supernatural help or mentor

• Trials and challenges

• Transformation or revelation

• Return to society with a gift or lesson

What are the characteristics of a monomyth?

cyclical

what is the concept of time for early religions?