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Myth & Folk Unit 4 Critical Thinking

Myths and legends often feature animal characters because animals have long been an important part of human life and culture. They serve as symbols for human traits and help explain natural phenomena. Defeating a monster in myths represents overcoming obstacles in real life, such as facing a fear. The werewolf myth appeals because it involves transformation and escaping social constraints, exploring themes of identity. Myths provide insight into how certain animals were significant to a society, like bears symbolizing strength in Native American culture. The idea of cryptids is intriguing because humans are naturally curious about the unknown and mysteries, and cryptids challenge our understanding of science.

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144 views1 page

Myth & Folk Unit 4 Critical Thinking

Myths and legends often feature animal characters because animals have long been an important part of human life and culture. They serve as symbols for human traits and help explain natural phenomena. Defeating a monster in myths represents overcoming obstacles in real life, such as facing a fear. The werewolf myth appeals because it involves transformation and escaping social constraints, exploring themes of identity. Myths provide insight into how certain animals were significant to a society, like bears symbolizing strength in Native American culture. The idea of cryptids is intriguing because humans are naturally curious about the unknown and mysteries, and cryptids challenge our understanding of science.

Uploaded by

musescore1013
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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1.

Why do you think animal characters are so common in many of humankind’s myths and
legends?
Animal characters are common in myths and legends because animals have been an integral
part of human life and culture since ancient times. Many cultures have developed a deep
connection with animals and have attributed certain traits and characteristics to them. Animal
characters in myths and legends often serve as metaphors or symbols for human traits,
emotions, and behaviors. Additionally, animals are often associated with the natural world, and
many myths and legends use them to explain natural phenomena or to teach moral lessons.
2. Animals (sometimes in the form of a monster) often must be defeated in a myth before a
character is able to continue their journey or keep their life. How does this symbolize the
obstacles people face in real life? What is an example of an obstacle you have faced
that mirrors, even loosely, the obstacles monsters present in myths and legends?
In myths and legends, defeating an animal or monster often symbolizes overcoming obstacles
or challenges in real life. For example, the Greek hero Perseus slaying the monstrous Medusa
can be interpreted as overcoming fear and self-doubt to achieve a difficult goal. Similarly, facing
a personal fear or overcoming a difficult challenge in life can be seen as overcoming a monster
or defeating an obstacle.
3. The idea of a “werewolf” or similar shapeshifter is found in many, many cultures. Why do
you think this myth is so common?
The werewolf or shapeshifter myth may be so common because it taps into the human
fascination with transformation and the desire to escape the constraints of human society. The
idea of being able to transform into a powerful animal can be appealing, especially in cultures
where animals are revered for their strength and abilities. Additionally, the werewolf myth often
explores themes of identity and the struggle between the human and animal instincts within us.
4. How do the myths and legends about animals help us infer the ways in which certain
animals were important to a society?
Myths and legends about animals can provide insight into the ways in which certain animals
were important to a society. For example, in many Native American cultures, the bear is
considered a powerful and respected animal, often symbolizing strength, protection, and
healing. Many myths and legends feature bears as important characters, and these stories can
help us understand the significance of bears in these cultures.
5. Cryptids exist in almost every known culture. Why do you think the idea of an animal that
exists outside the realm of the knowable or provable is so intriguing?
6. The idea of cryptids, or animals that exist outside the realm of the knowable or provable,
is intriguing for several reasons. First, humans have a natural curiosity about the
unknown, and the existence of creatures that have yet to be discovered or scientifically
classified taps into that sense of wonder and fascination. Additionally, the idea of
cryptids often carries a sense of mystery and adventure, which can be appealing to
people who enjoy exploring new ideas and concepts. Finally, the existence of cryptids
can challenge our understanding of the natural world and the limitations of our scientific
knowledge, which can be both exciting and unsettling. Overall, the concept of cryptids
represents a tantalizing possibility of discovering something new and unexpected in our
world.

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