The Influence of Ancient Greek Mythology on Modern Society...

Ancient Greek society fell over 2000 years ago but despite this, its mythology still continues to influence our western society. References to Greek mythology can be found all through time and in our western culture. The influence of Greek mythology can be found in our science, arts and literature and our language. When Ancient Greece fell to the Roman Empire, Rome adapted its mythologies which still influence us today as they have through history. That is not to say that Greek mythology wasn’t influenced itself – Greek mythology has links with the bible and the early Mycenaean’s. It has also been recognised as one of the earliest forms of paganism. References to Greek mythology can be found all through time and in our Western culture.†¦show more content†¦They were named for ******, Poseidon and Hades the king of the underworld. Asides from the planets, many of the moons orbiting the planets, especially Jupiter (Zeus) have been named according to Greek mythology. Pluto’s moon Charon was named after the boat keeper of the underworld, continuing the link between ancient Greek mythology and western society. The influence of Greek mythology does not stop here, it continues into the stars and galaxies – many of which are named after characters in Greek mythology and this is how Greek mythology has continually influenced western society over time. However, Greek mythologies role in western society is not limited to our science, as it has also played a huge part in developing the English language and phrases that we use. There are two ways in which Greek mythology has affected the English language and that is in words that reference Greek mythology and through phrases that represent the actions of characters in Greek mythology. Words such as an aphrodisiac - something that arouses or intensifies sexual desire, stems from the Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. Also linked with Aphrodite is Venereal disease (another word for STI). This stems from the Roman term Venus which is the equivalent Aphrodite. Also, the drug morphine – its name comes from the Greek god of sleep, Morpheus. Its words such as these that create the link between Greek mythology and western society. These are clear examples of how GreekShow MoreRelatedAncient Greek Influences Essay886 Words   |  4 Pageslong considered Ancient Greece to be one of the most influential societies on modern day life. Ancient Greece has inspired the modern world in five main areas: theatre, government, philosophy, art, and architecture. Theatre flourished in Greece, particularly in Athens, between c. 550 BC and c. 220 BC. During its beginnings theatrical performances were part of Dionysia, a festival held in honour of the god Dionysus. 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