Interpretation Analysis of Feminine Divine Myths

Directions

Part 1

Interpret at least ONE of the above assigned myths.

Here is a process you can follow in order to do an effective interpretation:

• • Do a close reading of the myth
  • Annotate the myth even as you read, noting the elements (the symbols, the juxtapositions, the events, etc.)
  • Understand what is the larger purpose of the myth (for example, is the myth about a sociological function; is the myth paradigmatic for behaviors; is the myth about the relationship between man and divine? NOTE: Most myths address all these levels, but most myths will also have one overarching function or purpose)
  • Once you have understood the larger purpose, examine its various elements from that perspective. For example, examine what symbols it uses and why? What paradigmatic behaviors do its characters portray and why? Etc.
  • NOTE: you must necessarily see these elements in relation to the myth’s respective culture and explore how and why the elements of the myth are significant to that society and to the people of that society.

To develop your responses, also consider:

• The Introduction to each myth in your textbook
• The symbology of the myths.
• The relationship of the myths to the mythology of goddesses, as discussed in feminine divine chapter of your textbook
• The layers of the myth onion
• Documents on how to interpret myth (Module 5)

Consider the following questions and suggestions to focus your interpretation:

1. Aside from being an allegory of sexual and romantic love, what does Inanna and Dumuzi’s relationship symbolize?
2. How do both representations of Kali in Kali Beheaded and in “Devi, Great Goddess” embody death, destruction and liberation?
3. In the Kali myths (attachment below), what makes Kali greater than the gods, and what can this tell us about a possible connection to the Great Goddess theories.
4. What sociological messages can be gleaned from the Myth of Demeter?

Your responses should be:

• approximately 500-700 words
• supported with good examples from the myths
• supported with critical analysis of symbols represented in the myths
• supported with critical thought about what the elements of the myth tell us about the culture
• cited accurately according to MLA