Essential Vocabulary of Mythology and Folklore
This list defines 49 key terms used when discussing traditional stories, heroic narratives, and the supernatural elements found across various cultures.
Mythological Terminology
- 1. Myth
- A traditional story explaining natural or social phenomena, often involving gods or supernatural beings.
- 2. Legend
- A traditional story passed down over time, often based on real people or events with exaggerated details.
- 3. Benevolent
- Kind and generous.
- 4. Malevolent
- Wishing harm to others.
- 5. God
- A powerful supernatural being worshipped in myths.
- 6. Goddess
- A female deity or divine being.
- 7. Creature
- A mythical or imaginary animal, often with magical traits.
- 8. Quest
- A long journey or mission, usually with a heroic purpose.
- 9. Oracle
- A person or place believed to give wise or prophetic advice.
- 10. Prophecy
- A prediction of what will happen in the future.
- 11. Fate
- A power believed to control the future; destiny.
- 12. Immortal
- Living forever; not subject to death.
- 13. Mortal
- A being that can die.
- 14. Resilient
- Able to recover quickly from difficulties.
- 15. Ancient
- Very old; from a time long past.
- 16. Mythology
- A collection of myths belonging to a culture.
- 17. Folklore
- Traditional stories and beliefs passed down by a culture.
- 18. Transformation
- A major change in form or nature, often magical.
- 19. Supernatural
- Beyond the natural world; involving magic or spirits.
- 20. Trickster
- A clever character who uses wit or deception.
- 21. Sacred
- Holy or connected to the gods.
- 22. Symbol
- An object or image that represents a deeper meaning.
- 23. Epic
- A long story or poem about heroic deeds.
- 24. Moral
- A lesson or value taught through a story.
- 25. Enchanted
- Under a magical spell or charm.
- 26. Mythical
- Existing only in traditional stories; imaginary.
- 27. Beast
- A wild animal, often fierce or mythical.
- 28. Chariot
- A two-wheeled vehicle used in ancient times, often in myths.
- 29. Underworld
- A mythical place where the dead reside.
- 30. Ritual
- A ceremony with specific steps, often religious or magical.
- 31. Divine
- Of or like a god; holy.
- 32. Wicked
- Evil or morally wrong.
- 33. Curse
- A magical spell meant to bring harm or bad luck.
- 34. Blessing
- A gift or favor from a god or divine source.
- 35. Wanderer
- A person who travels without a fixed home, often in legends.
- 36. Sorcerer
- A person who uses magic or spells.
- 37. Witch
- A woman believed to have magical powers.
- 38. Spell
- Words or actions believed to have magical power.
- 39. Artifact
- A human-made object, often ancient and linked to myths.
- 40. Temptation
- A strong urge, often leading to trouble in stories.
- 41. Trial
- A test of strength, courage, or virtue.
- 42. Deception
- The act of tricking or lying, often seen in legends.
- 43. Courage
- Bravery in the face of danger or fear.
- 44. Wisdom
- Deep understanding or good judgment.
- 45. Honor
- High moral standards; respect earned through actions.
- 46. Glory
- Great fame or admiration from achievements.
- 47. Avenger
- A character who seeks justice or revenge.
- 48. Destiny
- The future that is meant to happen; one’s fate.
- 49. Tall Tale
- A story with unbelievable elements, told in a realistic way.
The Significance of Myths and Legends
Cultural and Educational Value
- They help us understand different cultures and their beliefs.
- They teach important moral lessons.
- They inspire creativity and imagination.
- They connect us to the past and help keep traditions alive.
Myths often attempt to answer fundamental questions about existence and the natural world, such as: Why do seasons change? Where do people come from?