Greek mythology is the repertoire of myths and teachings that

originated in ancient Greece on a wide spectrum of topics like

their gods, heroes, the different ritual practices, the

phenomenon of nature, and the significance of their cult. These

myths and teachings come in the form of stories which have

been told and retold from one generation to another, and

today, these stories are popular among people around the

world.

Many stories which are considered to be a part of Greek

mythology today have had their roots in other cultures and

myths. While the Greek mythology is considered to be 2,500

years old, some stories that have originated in a different

culture may be more than 4,500 years old.

In addition to narratives, Greek myths are present in the form

of sculptures, paintings and other representational arts. Vase

paintings and votive gifts were the most common mediums of

showcasing such arts.

The most renowned literary source for Greek mythology has

been Homer's poems and epics. Other luminaries who are

known to have contributed to the Greek myths are Plutarch

and Pausanias.

Greek mythology has had a great impact on the culture, art

and literature of Greece. Whether it was ancient poets or

contemporary ones, Greek mythology has been the source of

inspiration of many luminaries in the literary world. Many

artists have been influenced by Greek mythology as well.

The Greeks and Romans believed the Greek mythology to be a

part of their history. They found pride in being able to trace

their descent to the families of one of the heroes or Gods.

There were very few who doubted or questioned the facts

behind these myths and teachings. This was before 5th

century BC when Homer's epos was considered to be the

basis of Greek acculturation. As philosophy and rationalism

replaced the myths, many began to criticize the mythological

genealogies.

Today, Greek mythology is an interesting topic which garners

attention from many curious minds, but most of it is taken

with a pinch of doubt and while we will still find Greek

mythology to be an influence on arts and literature, it is no

longer a way of life for the people as it once used to be.