8 Intriguing Mythologies in the World That Still Influence Culture Today

Mythology is the collection of stories and lore that reflect the beliefs, values, and imagination of different cultures and civilisations. It often deals with the origins of the world, the nature of the gods, the adventures of heroes, and the fate of humanity. Mythology also influences and shapes the art, literature, and philosophy of various past and present societies. In this article, we will explore eight intriguing mythologies from around the world that still impact our culture today.

1. Greek Mythology

Greek mythology stands as one of the globe’s most renowned and impactful mythological traditions. At its core lies the pantheon of Mount Olympus, home to illustrious figures like Zeus, Athena, Apollo, and Aphrodite, each engaging in intricate relationships with mortals and other entities. Within its vast tapestry, Greek mythology unfolds epic narratives brimming with heroes and heroines, including the likes of the Trojan War, the Odyssey, Hercules, and the enigmatic Medusa.

2. Norse Mythology

Norse mythology is the mythology of the ancient Scandinavians, also known as the Vikings. It centres on the gods and goddesses of Asgard, such as Odin, Thor, and Freya, and their interactions with mortals and other realms. Norse mythology has influenced many aspects of our culture and current ideas, such as the names of the days of the week, the concept of fate, and the symbols of the hammer and the runes.

3. Egyptian Mythology

Egyptian mythology encompasses the rich tapestry of beliefs and stories of the ancient Egyptians, a civilisation renowned for its antiquity and sophistication. Central to this mythology are the deities of the Egyptian pantheon, including Ra, Isis, Anubis, and Horus, each playing pivotal roles in the creation, preservation, and judgment of the cosmos. Within its intricate narratives lie profound symbols and rituals such as the concept of the afterlife, the practice of mummification, the majestic pyramids, and the enigmatic sphinx.

4. Celtic Mythology

Celtic mythology serves as the repository of the ancient Celts, a diverse group inhabiting different regions of Europe and Britain. Within its realms reside the gods and goddesses of the Celtic pantheon, including Dagda, Morrigan, Lugh, and Brigid, intertwined with the elements of nature, magic, and the mystical otherworld. This rich tradition is adorned with vibrant tales and legends, such as the legendary exploits of King Arthur’s cycle, the sagas of the Tuatha De Danann, the deities of Irish lore, and the enchanting narratives of the Mabinogion, which are the Welsh myths.

5. Mesopotamian Mythology

Mesopotamian mythology involves the ancient Mesopotamians, the first civilisation in the world. It centers on the gods and goddesses of the Mesopotamian pantheon, such as Anu, Enlil, Ishtar, and Marduk, and their roles in the creation, order, and destruction of the world. Mesopotamian mythology has influenced and shaped many aspects of our culture and history, such as the concepts of writing, mathematics, and astronomy. Some examples are the Bible, the Quran, and the Star Wars saga.

6. African Mythology

African mythology is the collective term for the diverse and varied mythologies of the African continent and its people. It centres on the gods and goddesses of the African pantheon, such as Amun, Orisha and Ananse, and their interactions with humans, animals, and spirits. African mythology has enriched and influenced many aspects of our culture and society, such as the art, music, and literature of the African diaspora. Some examples are the Lion King movie, the Black Panther movie, and the Things Fall Apart novel.

7. Hindu Mythology

Hindu mythology is the mythology of the Hindu religion, one of the oldest and largest religions in the world. It centres on the gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon, such as Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi, and their manifestations, incarnations, and avatars. Hindu mythology also features diverse stories and scriptures, such as the Vedas, the Upanishads, the Ramayana, and the Mahabharata. Hindu mythology has influenced and shaped many aspects of our culture and philosophy, such as the concepts of karma, dharma, and reincarnation. Some examples are the Avatar movie, the Life of Pi movie, and the Eat Pray Love book.

8. Chinese Mythology

Chinese mythology represents the mythological traditions of the esteemed Chinese culture, renowned as one of the world’s oldest and most influential civilisations its core lies the vibrant pantheon of gods and goddesses, including figures like Yu Huang, the Jade Emperor, Guan Yin, the compassionate Goddess of Mercy, and Sun Wukong, the mischievous Monkey King. Chinese mythology also features ancient stories and legends, such as the creation of the world, the journey to the West, and the romance of the three kingdoms. Some results of Chinese mythology are the Mulan movie, the Kung Fu Panda movie, and the Journey to the West novel.