Teaching Mythology

Today we are discussing the final stages of the Hero's Journey and illustrating each stage with examples from popular films like Star Wars, Harry Potter, and The Lord of the Rings. Next I'll describe how to teach these concepts in a classroom setting, including the use of movies like Disney's Hercules and Willow to help students identify the stages of the Heroic Journey. The Heroic Journey has universal appeal in teaching shared human experiences and connections across cultures. Looking for ...

In this episode, we continue exploring the Hero's Journey in Part Two, focusing on the Initiation or Road of Trials. Using examples from popular stories like Harry Potter and Star Wars, the episode discusses various stages of the initiation. Each stage is analyzed, providing insights into how these events shape the hero and prepare them for their ultimate quest. Want to teach the Heroic Journey to your classes? Check out the ppt I use here. ______ I've made this Google Doc of How I Ma...

After a two-year hiatus, I'm back discussing Joseph Campbell's Monomyth or Heroic Journey. Diving into this narrative archetype used in storytelling worldwide, I'll use examples from 'Star Wars' and 'Harry Potter' to illustrate the stages of this journey, including the departure, initiation, and return. This episode covers the first act, elaborating on the hero's separation from their known world, the call to adventure, doubts and fears, mentorship, talismans, allies, and crossing the t...

Our Christmas and holiday traditions are steeped in centuries-old traditions and folktales that date back to the pagan era. In this episode, I will retell and discuss 11 different witches, , grandmothers, trickster boys and old me, and goddesses from mythology that all relate to the winter solstice and winter holiday traditions. Here is who I will be talking about in brief (you can use the chapter markers to jump to the one you really want to hear). Greek Mythology - Chione Norse Myth...

Take a walk with me through the Greek Underworld, past the river Styx, through the gates of Hades as we explore the Elysian Fields and Tartarus. What you may think the Underworld is like, is probably not really how it is. I also share my favorite assignment to do with my students to help them explore the Underworld - students create their own map of the Underworld as they read descriptions of it. You can check out the Map of the Underworld Project here. Read the transcript HERE ...