Online Class: Greek Mythology

With their intricate blend of gods, heroes, and epic conflicts, Greek myths offer insights into ancient Greek civilization and continue to shape modern cultural references. This course takes students on an enlightening journey from the cosmos's origins to the lasting impact of myths on contemporary literature and art.
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  • 8
    Lessons
  • 28
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 4,441
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 7
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.7
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Demystifying Greek Mythology: From Myths to Modern-Day Narratives

If you've ever stumbled across a reference to Athena, been intrigued by the story of Hercules, or pondered about the Trojan War, and thought, "Why does this sound unfamiliar?" you're not alone. While the tales of Greek mythology have stood the test of time, spanning millennia and cultures, the formal teaching of these captivating stories has dwindled in contemporary curricula. However, their impact on modern culture, from literature to art and even pop culture, is undeniable.

Why Greek Mythology?

Greek mythology offers more than just stories. It's a mirror reflecting ancient Greek civilization's beliefs, traditions, fears, aspirations, and cultural norms. At its core, these myths were their way of understanding the universe, nature, relationships, and more. It encompasses everything from the origin of the universe and divine tales of gods and goddesses to stories of love, sacrifice, bravery, deceit, and the human condition.

Today, we witness traces of these myths everywhere: in literature, movies, brand names, and even idioms. They're sewn into the very fabric of our daily lives. Remember saying "open Pandora's box" or calling someone's weak spot their "Achilles' heel"? These expressions have their roots in Greek myths.

Course Outline:

  1. Introduction to Greek Mythology (Lesson 1): Dive into the mesmerizing world of myths. Discover the origins, significance, and the various forms these stories have taken over the centuries. Did you know many of our star constellations are named after Greek myths? For instance, Orion's Belt originates from the story of Orion, a giant hunter.

  2. In The Beginning (Lesson 2): Start at the very inception. How did the Greeks explain the origin of the world, gods, and humanity? Delve into primordial deities like Gaia and Uranus and the early tales that set the stage for everything to come.

  3. The Gods and Early Heroes in Mythology (Lesson 3): Ascend Mount Olympus and meet the pantheon of gods and goddesses. From Zeus's thunderbolts to Athena's wisdom, familiarize yourself with their tales and their roles in shaping Greek culture. Dive into the stories of early heroes who set standards for bravery and virtue.

  4. The Great Heroes during the Trojan War (Lesson 4): The Trojan War, a monumental event in mythology, featured heroes like Achilles and Hector. Unpack the intricate details of this decade-long war and its impact on subsequent literature, including Homer's "Iliad."

  5. Stories of Love in Mythology (Lesson 5): Greek myths are rich with tales of love, both uplifting and tragic. From the undying love of Orpheus and Eurydice to the tumultuous relationship between Zeus and Hera, explore love's multifaceted representation.

  6. Famous Greek Mythology Families and Their Cities (Lesson 6): Beyond individuals, Greek myths also focus on illustrious families like the house of Atreus and cities such as Athens. Understand the significance of these dynasties and how their legacies played pivotal roles in Greek history.

  7. More Myths from Greek Mythology (Lesson 7): As we progress, there's a treasure trove of myths waiting to be unraveled. Whether it's tales of heroism, treachery, or magic, every story offers a window into ancient Greece's soul.

Why Choose This Course?

Whether you're seeking to satiate your curiosity, reconnect with tales you've heard in passing, or wish to understand the influence of Greek myths on today's narratives, this course promises a riveting journey. It's more than just stories; it's about understanding our shared human legacy through the lens of ancient Greece. Dive in and let these age-old tales resonate with you in ways you've never imagined!

Courses Frequently Bought Together:

Course Motivation

More and more, we are finding evidence of Greek myths in our everyday lives and the student of Greek mythology will soon find themselves in the middle of a fascinating and entertaining vista.  Anyone who has ever seen the spectacle of the Olympics will understand just how our entire world culture has been influenced by the mythology of the Greeks and even today, those ties to the past can be seen in everything from paintings to sculptures to film and books. 

These myths provide us with valuable insights into who we are because they are an essential part of all of our backgrounds.  When George Lucas first conceived on the wildly successful STAR WARS series, he admitted that many of the ideas were directly taken from Greek mythology – and the brilliant scholar Joseph Campbell was passionate about how the myths of the ancients have permeated into our own subconscious and became a vital part of who we are.

More than that, though, Greek mythology is a fascinating and enriching course that will give the student insights into human nature and into the very aspects of who we are.  Whether you’re looking for passionate love stories, adventures that will leave you breathless,  or want to delve into the world of monsters and sorcery, this is the course for you.  You’ll discover new ways to look at the world around you and see just where it is that the ancients have touched our modern-day lives.

Students of this course will discover how our very fabric of society is derived from the ancient Greeks and how our everyday world has elements that go back centuries – back to the ages when the Greeks brought us tales of gods and warriors, of love lost and love regained, of triumph over incredible odds. 

You’ll learn that there’s nothing to be afraid of when it comes to understanding Greek mythology.  Many people are put off by the term “classical mythology,” but the fact is that these are adventure tales that can be as exciting as anything on the screen today.  (In fact, films like TROY and the upcoming 300 are a direct result of those ancient myths – and they are far from boring.)

The course will cover such diverse areas as:

·        The reasons for taking a mythology course:  The student will understand what a myth is, why it is important to our society, and how myths have always impacted the world today.  Students will understand the attraction to delving into the very aspects of creation that have been a part of our nature since the dawn of time.

·        In the beginning:  Students will examine the Greek ideas of creation and understand the birth of Man from the gods.  The Titans will be discussed, as well as the Olympians and learn about the Five Ages of Mankind – and we’ll see how Pandora unleashed a series of misfortunes upon our world through such a simple thing as curiosity.

·        The gods and early heroes in mythology:  The student will learn about the gods and early heroes, including the 12 gods and goddesses of the Pantheon.

·        The great heroes during the Trojan War:  You will learn about the causes of the Trojan War, and will examine such great heroes as Odysseus, Achilles and Paris – understanding the very nature of friendship and sacrifice.

·        Stories of love in mythology:  The student will discover great stories of love in the myths of the Greeks, and see how they have been handed down through the centuries, even affecting the world that we live in today.

·        Famous Greek mythology families and their cities:  Continuing with understanding how Greek mythology affects the world today, the student will examine some of the greatest Greek families and see how their influence affected the very cities that they either conquered or created.

·        More myths from Greek mythology:  Students will learn about Sisyphus, King Midas, Oedipus (which became one of the most important stories of modern times and influenced such areas as modern psychology).

All in all, students of this course will see how incredibly rich and exciting the Greek myths are and how they have literally impacted every area of life today, from art to architecture to literature.

  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.6 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(1,394 votes)

Lesson 1. The Immortal Tales of Ancient Greece

Originally transmitted orally, Greek mythology began as a rich tradition of storytelling that thrived in an otherwise illiterate society. Works by poets like Homer and Hesiod eventually codified these stories, offering both religious guidance and moral lessons to the Greeks. Additional lesson topics: The Greek Gods 51 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video A
  • Lesson 1 Video B : Introduction Discussion
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-1-WordSearch-11225.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: Which are your favorite types of Myths?; Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete: Introduction Assignment: Reasons for Taking a Mythology Course
  • Complete Assignment: Defining Myth
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. Unlocking the Secrets of Greek Mythology

Greek mythology has significantly impacted Western thought, inspiring countless works from the Renaissance until today, and influencing art, literature, and philosophy. Stories such as Icarus's fall and the Trojan War provide timeless lessons on ambition and human nature, continuing to find meaning across generations. 39 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-2-Downloadable-11226.pdf
  • Complete Assignment: Origins of Greek Mythology and their influence.
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. The Cosmic Unraveling: From Chaos to Creation in Greek Mythos

Gaea, personifying Earth, stands as the revered matriarch in Greek mythology, responsible for the emergence of various gods and natural formations. Her union with Uranus results in the birth of Titans, Cyclopes, and other entities critical to subsequent power struggles. Additional lesson topics: Homer and the Human Condition; Homer and Greek Mythology 73 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video A
  • Lesson 3 Video B : Lesson 2 Discussion
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-3-Activity-11227.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: Where did you learn your first Greek myths?
  • Complete Assignment: Lesson 1: Finding other Myths
  • Complete Assignment: Homer's Odysseus and the Human Condition through Myth
  • Assessment: Quiz on Lesson 1
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. The Three Brothers: Dividing the Cosmos in Greek Myth

Perseus and Theseus represent the archetypal Greek heroes who confront monstrous challenges with divine assistance, embodying themes of bravery and intellect. Their stories explore the interplay between human ambition and the relentless forces of fate, a central motif in Greek mythology. Additional lesson topics: Greek Mythological Heroes; Greek Gods Explained 52 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video A
  • Lesson 4 Video B : Lesson 3 Discussion
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-4-HomeWork-11228.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: Famous Myths
  • Complete Assignment: Lesson 2: God or Hero.
  • Assessment: Quiz for Lesson 2
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. Trojan War Legends

From the divine origins of the Trojan War to its earth-shattering conclusion, the saga encompasses a rich tapestry of heroism and tragedy, epitomized by figures like Achilles and Odysseus. These epics delve into the complexities of human nature and the merciless interplay of fate and free will. Additional lesson topics: The Trojan War and Literature; The Trojan War 70 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video A
  • Lesson 5 Video B : Lesson 4 Discussion
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-5-WordSearch-11229.pdf
  • Complete Assignment: Lesson 3: The Odyssey
  • Complete Assignment: The Myth of the Trojan War and its influence
  • Assessment: Quiz for Lesson 3
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam

Lesson 6. The Many Faces of Love in Greek Lore

Europa's kidnapping by Zeus showcases divine-mortal interactions that have lasting consequences. Her story not only covers the passionate pursuit by a god but also establishes foundational myths linking mortals to the divine world. 67 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video A
  • Lesson 6 Video B : Lesson 5 Discussion
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-6-HomeWork-11230.pdf
  • Complete Assignment: Lesson 4: Eros and Psyche
  • Complete Assignment: The Greeks and Love.
  • Assessment: Quiz on Lesson 4
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. Tales of Triumph and Tragedy: Greek Mythological Families

The Aeolids, descendants of Aeolus, exemplify Greek ideals of leadership across regions, revealing both glory and tragedy in their tales. Sisyphus�s eternal punishment serves as a metaphor for human perseverance against the futility of life's struggles. Additional lesson topics: House of Pelops 71 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video A
  • Lesson 7 Video B : Lesson 6 Discussion
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-7-Activity-11231.pdf
  • Complete Assignment: Lesson 5: Sparta vs Athens
  • Complete Assignment: The House Of Pelops
  • Assessment: Quiz for Lesson 5
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam

Lesson 8. Lesser-Known Greek Myths

Sisyphus, known for his cunning, defies the gods, leading to his eternal punishment of futile labor by pushing a boulder uphill forever. This myth symbolizes life's relentless struggles, later interpreted by Camus as an allegory for finding meaning in perseverance. 59 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video A
  • Lesson 8 Video B : Lesson 7 Discussion
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-8-HomeWork-11232.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: What do you think about this course?; Course Comments; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course)
  • Complete: Assignment 6: The Minotaur or the Gorgon's Head
  • Complete: Final Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Oedipus
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam
482
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Define the role of Greek mythology in explaining natural phenomena and human behavior, recognizing specific myths that served educational and cultural purposes.
  • Examine the influence of Greek mythology on modern culture, identifying how ancient myths are reinterpreted and integrated into contemporary art, literature, and media.
  • Identify influences of Greek mythology on modern Western culture through analysis of recurring themes in art, literature, and philosophy.
  • Define the role of Greek mythology in ancient Greek society by outlining its functions in explaining natural phenomena and transmitting cultural values.
  • Describe the journey of Helios and its significance in Greek mythology by explaining the sun's daily path across the sky.
  • Identify the sequence of events in the creation story of Greek mythology as described in Hesiod's Theogony, including the emergence of primal forces and beings.
  • Describe the roles and traits of key Olympian gods by examining their influence in Greek mythology and analyzing their interactions with other gods and heroes.
  • Define the familial relationships and divisions of power among Greek gods by identifying each god's domain and lineage within the divine hierarchy.
  • Analyze the themes of divine intervention and human agency in the Trojan War, focusing on the outcomes of key events influenced by gods and mortals.
  • Identify the key heroes of the Trojan War and describe their roles and attributes using examples from The Iliad and The Odyssey.
  • Analyze the impact of divine influence on mortal lives through the lens of Greek mythological love stories.
  • Define the themes of power, obsession, revenge, and sacrifice as reflected in the love stories of Greek mythology.
  • Recognize the impact of Greek mythological families on the cultural values and beliefs of ancient Greece by examining their stories and legacies.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
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Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Greek Mythology
Course Number: 7550449
Lessons Rating: 4.6 / 5 Stars (1,394 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: Enroll in this course from any U.S. state, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. The course is also accessible to learners in English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and South Africa.
Last Updated: March 2024
CEU Value: 0.7 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Classes
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "I found this class to be really interesting and I learned a lot about mythology! It was fun learning about different myths." -- Elise C.
  • "I enjoyed working with my instructor Mac. He presents the lessons well, always leaves feedback, and always promptly answers questions." -- Kathy L.
  • "I enjoyed this course as it was great for those who were interested in learning Greek mythology but did not know where to begin, and I learned a lot with this course." -- Chelsea M.
  • "I found this course enlightening and challenging to say the least. I have learned so much about human condition and the way these myths have laid the groundwork for so much in our literary thinking." -- Bobbi M.
  • "Great course, plenty of interesting myths and great video discussion. I would recommend it - I learned so much! Good feedback too." -- Jennifer O.
  • "This course and the way it was presented for me was outstanding. I have taken many college classes and have had only two or three other instructors whom I would classify as fabulous. This class came to me at the most opportune time. I was able to move along at my pace, which given what was occurring in my life was a blessing. I was able to get another perspective on life's curve balls and go within instead of seeking without. And for this I will be forever grateful." -- Jenna V.
  • "Thank you for this interesting opportunity to delve into the world of Greek mythology. I had touched upon it in high school and read some stories on my own but I had not read about the Iliad or Trojan War in any detail like I had with the this course. The instructor made the subject engaging with examples and stories relating to the human condition." -- Mary anne G.
  • "I really liked the course. It was just the right level of difficulty. The lessons were all very informative and I learned a lot of new myths that I had not heard of before. Great class!" -- Virginia J.
  • "It was a great class, full of great stories and information." -- Sandra P.
  • "It is an amazing course and very informational." -- Jerry M.
View More Testimonials...
 

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