Myths (short essay)

Myths have much less of a role in human society today than they have in the past, especially in cultures with a primarily oral history. For those societies, myths are a form of entertainment, a means for passing on values, and a way of sharing common cultural ideas. The impact of myths today is minimal, since those roles are filled by television, religion and other forms of entertainment.

The myth I read was actually three stories of the Igbo. (Ale, Eri and the city of Nri, and Onojo Oboni Of Iddah) The first gives no real details about place or geography, but it does say that it takes place at the beginning of time. The second is not at the beginning of time, but at the "start of things." We realize that Eri is likely in a hotter climate since he grows a cocoyam and a yam, and as the title tells us, it takes place in the city of Nri. The third gives no clues to geography or time, but it does take place in the city of Iddah, which we know lies near the Niger.

I suppose that technically myths do exist in other forms. Depending who you ask, many religions could be considered myths, and they certainly make use of many in their practice. We watch fanciful shows on television almost daily, and we wonder with great curiosity whether the most recent 'myth' we heard about a celebrity is actually true. So although their impact is much less, I suppose they still exist.

The only glaring similarity was the parallel to the tower of Babel in the third story. A monument so great as to mock the gods in this case was literally intended to be used to attack the gods. Instead of the gods causing mass confusion, this tower just falls and kills many people.

The myth doesn't reveal too much about the structure of society, except that there are kings and slaves.

As I already alluded to, myths are intended to convey some value. Clearly the Onoio story teaches you not to mock the gods, (or try to fight the gods) the Ale teaches you why you should love the land and its creator, and the Eri one teaches hospitality, cleverness, and the importance of agriculture.