ABSTRACT
A good place to begin our study of religion is by looking at myths. This chapter discusses the nature of myths and provides several examples of myths from various religious systems. Myths tell of the origins and history of the world and the creation of the first human beings. People describe their world and express their worldview in stories and other creative expressions. This includes modes as diverse as art, drama, jokes, writing on the walls of public bathrooms, folk music, and festivals. The chapter focuses on stories that are told about the supernatural world. While myths show an astonishing degree of variability, certainly common themes occur that have become the focus of scholarly study. The chapter also looks at some of the approaches to the study of myths and surveys some of the common themes that are found. Myths can be oral or written.
