5 Lessons That Greek Mythology Teach Us

Ancient Greek has a huge influence on global narratives. Think of the Olympics, marathons, drama, and life lessons. One of the most important influences is the life lessons it has taught people in different circumstances. Can I pay someone to take my test? Yes, and spare time to learn the Greek mythology and how it affects daily life.

Think of the story of Oedipus and how he killed the father to marry the mother. Zeus is a great god whose narrative has endless lessons to teach the world with 92 children. The lessons are so profound that you can see them in practice in everyday life.  

Here are some of the most interesting lessons from Greek mythology.

1.       You cannot escape your fate

Jocasta is the character chosen to carry this message. He could do nothing to stop the son from killing the father and marrying the mother. It was a prophesy that was known by a few and could never be undone regardless of numerous attempts.

Jocasta even sent the son to be killed in an attempt to stop this terrible occurrence. However, fate had a different idea and had chosen a path that was to be followed by all. Jocasta’s actions proved futile.

The story replicates so many times in our daily lives. Despite trying numerous times, some situations prove to be unavoidable. Though you might want to blame yourself for the losses you experience, it must be clear that you are not in control of every situation you face. The solution is to accept the situation and take advantage of the opportunities such a situation presents. Wishing to be in another situation will not make it any better.

2.       Respect for elders

The lesson is captured in the life of Daedalus and Icarus. The two are in a maze. Daedalus created some wings fixed with wax for Icarus. While he allowed Icarus to fly too high because he could get close to the sun and melt the wax. Icarus was too excited about the wings that he forgot the warning. Consequently, he flew too high and close to the sun. when the wax began to melt, it was too late to rescue himself. He plummeted to his death.

In the age of technology and a lot of information, it is easy to ignore what parents, as well as guardians, say. Their tidbits of wisdom are met with laughter and arrogance in the name of knowing too much. By the time we are remembering the advice, it is usually too late. Just like Icarus, we are plummeting to our death and there is no point of return.

3.       Control emotions

The story of Hercules presented by Disney is not the original version. In Greek mythology, he is not a hero. His blind rage was only useful in battle because he could terrorize opponents. Hera on the other hand took advantage of the rage to manipulate Hercules because she hated her. If only Hercules had a level-head moment and was not quick to anger.

Hercules cautions people to be slow to anger. Do not rush to act on your initial emotions without thinking of the consequences. Other people could take advantage and influence your actions negatively. You will be left to face the consequences alone. Learn more about handling your homework from experts online.

4.       Family is everything

Creon prohibited the burial of Polyneices. Under the cover of darkness, Antigone went to bury the brother. According to define law, that was the only way to send him off in honor. Not even a death sentence would stop her. Her actions became the greatest demonstration of love. Antigone could not standby to see the brother disrespected, even in death.

5.       Even the best among us have a weak point

The Greeks solely depended on Achilles to win the Trojan war. However, they did not know that his heels were a weak point. Despite his anointing, the arrow to the heel took him down. While you are good at everything, you must accept the need not to be perfect.

Greek mythology is not just a series of stories. The lessons captured in these stories are so relevant and profound that you can only ignore them at your peril. The lessons are so clear in the world around us every day.