The Impact of Greek and Roman Mythology

The Impact of Greek and Roman Mythology

Modern language, industry, arts and culture all demonstrate the impact of Greek and Roman mythology in today's world. The Impact on Language

Very few people speak ancient Greek, but Greek mythology has shaped English and other languages on many levels.

\we use this word to call computer viruses today, in ancient times it refers to the wooden horse built by Greeks. Greeks destroyed Troy and end the Trojan War with this “horse”.

The impact on western language isn't confined to individual words. Many expressions are direct references to ancient myths. For example “an Achilles heel” means a single fatal vulnerability.

“opening Pandora's Box” means unlocking a world of trouble. The Impact on Western Culture

Television shows and movies have reintroduced those characters in the mythology to new generations, for example characters such as Hades, the Lord of the Underworld.

Some of the most famous works of art and literature demonstrate the impact of Greek mythology on western culture. Botticelli's The Birth of Venus is one of the world's most famous paintings.

Great writers such as Dante, Shakespeare and Milton make frequent references to Greek and Roman mythology, so much so that an understanding of Greek myths is necessary to truly appreciate their works.

The Impact on Science

Many constellations are named after characters or monsters from myths, including Cassiopeia, Andromeda, Hercules and Gemini.

All of the planets and most of the moons in the solar system are also named after Greek or Roman mythological characters.Even our Earth was named after a Greek myth. Another name for our planet is \mother.