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Greek Mythology & the 12 Olympians

Have you ever wondered where sayings like "He has the Midas touch", "You have to find their Achilles heel", or "Don't be fooled by a Trojan horse!" came from? Well, these sayings and many more come from ancient Greek myths.

Ancient Greek is the root of many English words and phrases, and their culture has famous portrayals of themes and stories that are still relevant today. No matter how much time has passed, the lessons of these literary works remain important in today's world, and are iterated on and alluded to almost everywhere.

Students will love our Greek mythology activities such as: important symbols in Greek mythology, list of deities and their signs, hero’s journey, Greek God and Goddesses, and more! These myth projects and ideas are creative, engaging, and easy to customize. Check out the Greek mythology lesson plans below:

Student Activities for Greek Mythology

Essential Questions for a Mythology Unit

• What role can myths and beliefs from the past have in today’s world?
• How does the definition of a hero change? Why? What is the definition of a hero in Greek mythology? What is the definition of a hero today?
• How do we use stories to explain the world around us? How did the ancient Greeks use stories to explain things they didn't understand?
• What lessons can we learn from Greek mythology?
• Who are the 12 gods and goddesses of Olympus and what are their symbols?
• How are the personalities of the Olympians reflected in their powers, domain, and the Greek mythological symbols?
• What role do Greek myths, or myths from other civilizations, play in our lives today?

More About Our Pre-Made Activities

Greek mythology is a vast collection of stories, history, and individuals that can be overwhelming and difficult to keep track of. Storyboard That’s team of teachers have created several assignments to help you and your students gain a better understanding of Greek mythology, and have come up with some really cool activities for students to show what they know in engaging and creative ways. Read more below!

• Olympian Symbols: Greek god symbols are extremely important in Greek mythology. All gods, minor and major, had symbols and physical features that set them apart and identified them. For this activity, students will create a storyboard of the symbols of Greek gods. This is an excellent way to keep track of what represents whom!
• Myth Plot Diagram: Each story within Greek mythology is filled with twists and turns. For this activity, students can create a plot diagram of the myth of their choice, or one that is assigned to them by their teacher.
• Themes: If you take a good look at Olympus Greek mythology, you will surely notice that there are recurring themes surrounding the stories and history.
• Greek Gods and Goddesses: Have students keep track of the gods and goddesses by making a list of deities and their signs, domains, symbols, and more! Our Storyboard That artists have created characters for the main gods, can you find them in our art library?
• Olympian Poster: Having students research and spotlight an Olympian god or goddess is one of our most popular myth projects. Using the poster layout or a biography poster template as a starting off point, students can create a biography poster for the god or goddess of their choice.
• Symbols, Themes, and Motifs: Themes, symbols, and motifs add color and richness to stories. In chart format, students can identify and compare the different themes, symbols, and motifs in two or more stories. Some of the recurring ideas throughout several myths include: human flaws, war, temptation, payback and reward, love, fate, and beauty. Students will be engaged as they explore these areas in a colorful storyboard!
• Vocabulary: The vocabulary in Greek mythology can be very difficult to keep track of. Not only the terms, but also the Greek names versus the Roman names of the gods and goddesses. There are so many ways to use storyboards to explore Greek vocabulary. For this activity, we have given the example of how some Greek names have been transformed into English words such as martial (Mars, god of war), volcano (Vulcan, god of fire and forge), and cereal (Ceres, goddess of harvest).
• Create Your Own Greek God: A really fun way to engage students is to have them create their own Greek god. After learning about the elements of Greek gods and goddesses (domain, power, weakness, symbol, connection with the real world, etc.), they can create a spider map that includes the name, attributes, and back story, or a poster of their own individual!
• Hero’s Journey: The hero’s journey is a recurring pattern of stages that many heroes go through over the course of their journey. Some of the most popular hero journeys include Hercules, Theseus, and Odysseus, but our outline can really be used with a number of Greek gods and goddesses.
• TP-CASTT Analysis: The TP-CASTT method of poetry analysis is a very useful way to dissect a poem. Much like the order of operations in mathematics, TP-CASTT asks students to uncover deeper meanings of the poem in a sequential way in order to understand its parts. Students can dissect poems that are related to Greek myths in order to help them understand the larger scale stories!
• Social Media: Social media is a very popular form of connection and communication for middle and high school students. An exciting and engaging way to incorporate student interest into education is by having kids create a social media page for one or more Greek gods or goddesses. What would Medusa post about on Instagram? Would Loki post his tricks on Twitter? Check out our social media poster templates or our social media page worksheet templates for inspiration!
• Modern God Poster: An alternative to the spider map activity above is to create your own Greek god poster! Be sure to include all of the same attributes (domain, power, weakness, symbol, etc.), but expand your creativity by using a colorful biography poster template to get your creative juices flowing!

What is Mythology?

Mythology is, first and foremost, a collection of stories that describe the lives and exploits of the gods and preternatural forces before the time of recorded history. As a genre , mythology typically explains unknown origins, the reason for natural occurrences, or human nature. The stories reflect the values and issues of communities and to some extent, of society as a whole. Greek mythology is not the only type in the genre; many cultures from around the world have exquisite mythologies.

Greek mythology consists of the ancient Greeks' polytheistic beliefs. It begins with a creation myth, explaining how the earth was formed. Other myths deal with the origins and life of Greek heroes, and explanations of the natural world. Many are familiar with the particular Greek gods as they pertain to domains such as love, war, and trade, but may not know the origins of these gods. Together, these gods make up the Greek Pantheon.

Why Do We Study Greek Myths?

Greek myths have endured for thousands of years. Many of the Greek gods, heroes , and monsters represent ideals or certain traits. Mythical characters were the subjects of various art: sculpture adorning architecture, wall paintings, mosaics, free-standing sculpture, pottery, and so much more. The stories persisted partly because there were physical reminders of the stories in stone everywhere. Beyond the various physical remnants, Greek myths are old tales rich in plot, character, theme, and symbolism.

Romans appropriated many Greek myths as their own, but made significant alterations to them. The Roman Empire was a dominant force for hundreds of years and brought Roman culture to conquered lands throughout Europe and parts of Asia and Africa. The Renaissance and the Neoclassical eras in history saw a resurgence of Greco-Roman influences in art, literature, and science. As Western Civilization expanded across the world, the Greek stories remained! For an interesting take on this idea, be sure to check out The Lightning Thief and the rest of the Percy Jackson Series by Rick Riordan.

Greek mythology has a great deal of variation, because the stories were traditionally told and retold orally. Even ancient sources differ on the order of events and characters! When stories are passed down through the generations and translated into other languages, some of the details do not always stay the same. "Pandora's Box" is an excellent example of how details can morph from one thing to another. Pandora actually had a jar and not a box, but the popular use of Pandora's Box has remained.

Greek myths have pervaded our culture and literature. Many English words come from Greek roots, but there are also words that evolved directly from Greek mythology, such as narcissist , herculean , echo, and nemesis . Authors and artists have referred to Greek mythology for hundreds of years, either as direct subject matter or to represent something symbolically. In order to understand these various allusions , students need exposure to important characters and important symbols in Greek mythology. Check out our Greek mythology activities above!

12 Gods of Olympus

Greek mythology is centered around the powerful group of gods who lived on Mount Olympus, the tallest mountain in Greece. It is believed that these gods and goddesses ruled all aspects of life, and met as a council to discuss important things such as punishments, war, and the way of life in general. The twelve gods and goddesses are: Zeus, Hera, Aphrodite, Apollo, Ares, Artemis, Athena, Demeter, Dionysus, Hephaestus, Hermes, and Poseidon. Other gods and goddesses who were sometimes included as Olympians are Hades (god of the Underworld), Hestia (goddess of home and family), and Eros (god of love and also known as Cupid).

These important gods and goddesses looked like average men and women, but they could change their forms to look like animals and other things. For the most part, they remained on Mount Olympus, but Posiedon preferred to live in his palace under the sea.

The Olympians are also important influences to various heroes on their quests. Some influences may be positive, like Athena guiding Hercules or Odysseus, but some can also be major obstacles for heroes. Poseidon inhibits Odysseus from making it home to Ithaca, Hera tries to foil Hercules' Labors whenever she can, and Zeus sends the Argo way off course on its way home. Learning more about the personalities, areas of influence, and symbols of the Greek gods and goddesses is beneficial for understanding various allusions in literature, music, art, architecture, astronomy, marketing, and more. Students will love analyzing the various Greek mythological symbols and how the Greek gods' and goddesses' powers were said to be related to events and natural disasters.

The influence of the ancient Greek myths remains after many centuries in art, architecture, language, literature, and modern television and film. The stories in Greek mythology have universal themes and archetypes that are applicable across cultures, but are also memorable narratives by themselves. The Olympians often take a center role in these Greek myths because they are the twelve major gods of the Greek pantheon.

Who Are the 12 Olympian Gods?

• Zeus , also known as “The King of all Gods”, or “Father of Gods and men”, Zeus was the most powerful god who controlled the sky, storms, thunder, and lightning. He was also known as the god of justice. He is represented by a lightning bolt and eagles. Zeus was the youngest son of Cronos and Rhea, and when he was old enough, he and his siblings and uncles overthrew his father and gained control of the different realms. Zeus married Hera and together they had three children: Ares, Eris, and Hephaestus.
• Hera is the queen of the gods, and the goddess of marriage and childbirth. She is often represented by peacocks and wedding rings. Daughter of Cronos and Rhea, Hera is also known for her hatred of Troy, and tries to help the Greeks win against the Trojans whenever she can. Hera had three children with Zeus: Ares, Eris, and Hephaestus.
• Aphrodite is the goddess of love and beauty. She is often represented by a mirror, rose, or a dove. Aphrodite was the daughter of Uranus and Dione, but sometimes she was also said to be the daughter of Zeus and Thalassa or Dione. Aphrodite’s beauty was so stunning that men who catch a glimpse of her fall into a puddle of incoherent mutterings.
• Apollo , the god of sun and music, is represented by a golden lyre and a golden bow and arrow. He is the twin brother of Artemis, and the son of Zeus and the nymph Leto. The Greeks prayed to Apollo for good health, and feared him when a plague or other illness hit.
• Ares is the god of war, and he is represented by a spear and a shield which were often used in violent conflicts. Son of Zeus and Hera and brother of Athena, Ares is often defeated in stories that involve war. Ares is also known for being Aphrodite’s lover.
• Artemis is the goddess of the moon and the hunt, and carries a silver bow with arrows. Apollo and Artemis were the twin children of Zeus and the nymph Leto, but Artemis was the apple of Zeus’ eye. For Artemis’ third birthday, Zeus gave her a silver bow and arrows, wood nymphs, and hounds to hunt with. He also gave her the gift of chastity, which was part of her wish. She became known as a fierce huntress, and she was also very protective of her nymphs.
• Athena , known as the goddess of strategy and wisdom, is represented by a helmet and scroll, to be used for strategy in times of war. Daughter of Zeus and Metis, Athena used her skill and intuition to outwit others in battle.
• Demeter is the goddess of harvest and is represented by sheaves of wheat. During times of famine or poor crop yields, the Greek people came to Demeter for help. She had two children with Poseidon, Arion and Despoena, and one child with Zeus, Persephone.
• Dionysus , the god of wine, pleasure, and festivity, was typically represented by a cup and grapevines or vineyards. He was also a demigod, which means he was the son of a god and a mortal; his father was Zeus, and his mother’s name was Semele. Dionysus is perhaps most well-known for granting King Midas the power to turn everything he touched into gold.
• Hephaestus is the blacksmith god, as well as the god of fire and the forge. He is represented by a hammer and anvil. Son of Zeus and Hera, Hephaestus was flung off of Olympus by his mother when he was born: she thought he was so ugly that he would not win his father’s affection.
• Hermes , who is known as the messenger god, was the son of Zeus and Maia, is represented by winged sandals and his Caduceus staff. Hermes had many responsibilities including being the god of trade and thieves. He often was the messenger for his father, going back and forth from Olympus to Earth to the Underworld.
• Poseidon , also known as the god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses, is represented by his three-pronged trident and horses. Son of Rhea and Cronos, and brother of Zeus, Hades, Hera, Hestia, and Demeter, Poseidon and other family members worked together to overthrow his father. After the battle ended, Zeus, Hades, and Poseidon chose which realm each god would rule; Poseidon chose the sea.

There are so many interesting and entertaining stories about these gods and goddesses, and it is truly incredible how they are all intertwined. Storyboard That makes it simple to keep track of the myths and adventures that these gods and goddesses are a part of!

Other Greek Mythology Project Ideas

• Storyboard the life of your favorite Greek god or goddess.
• Create a family tree and list the Greek gods and goddesses along with their signs and symbols!
• Complete a storyboard showing Zeus being overthrown like Cronus or Uranus before him! Choose a god who will defeat Zeus, and tell how it happens.
• Research Greek gods and their symbols, and create a biography for your favorite!
• Make a presentation of all of the different Greek mythology symbols.
• Teachers can take their Greek mythology lesson plans offline by printing out colorful Greek mythology worksheets and graphic organizers related to the activities above such as social media page worksheets , character map worksheets , biography worksheets , vocabulary worksheets , plot diagram worksheets , and more!

For more information about Greek mythology and its influences, be sure to check out the following Teacher Resources.

• Ancient Greece
• Types of Heroes
• The Hero's Journey
• Elements of an Epic
• The Creation of the World
• Explanation Myths
• 12 Labors of Hercules
• Jason and the Golden Fleece
• The Odyssey
• Oedipus the King
• The Lightning Thief
• " The One Eyed Giant "
• Theseus and the Minotaur
• "Icarus and Daedalus"

Purchase The Complete World of Greek Mythology by Richard Buxton or D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths by Ingri and Edgar Parin d'Aulaire on Amazon to use as resources for Greek myths!

How to Use Greek Mythology Activities

Introduce essential questions.

Begin your mythology unit by discussing essential questions that explore the relevance of myths in today's world. Encourage students to think about the changing definitions of heroes, the use of stories to explain the unknown, lessons from Greek mythology and the role of myths in modern life.

Engage with Pre-Made Activities

Utilize pre-made activities from Storyboard That to enhance students' understanding of Greek mythology. These activities include creating storyboards of Olympian symbols, plot diagrams of myths, exploring themes, listing deities and their signs, designing posters, analyzing symbols and motifs, examining vocabulary, and more. Choose activities that align with your lesson objectives and student interests.

Explore the 12 Olympian Gods and Goddesses

Introduce the 12 gods and goddesses of Olympus, their personalities, domains, and Greek mythological symbols. Discuss their influence on heroes and their representation in various aspects of life, such as art, architecture, literature, and marketing. Help students make connections between these mythological figures and their presence in today's world.

Encourage Creativity and Research

Encourage students to engage in creative projects that deepen their understanding of Greek mythology. Assign tasks such as creating their own Greek god or goddess, conducting research on the hero's journey, analyzing poems related to myths using the TP-CASTT method, designing social media pages for mythological characters, and making posters or spider maps of individual gods

Incorporate Greek Mythology Worksheets

Print out colorful Greek mythology worksheets and graphic organizers to support offline learning. Utilize worksheets related to social media pages, character maps, biographies, vocabulary, plot diagrams, and more. These resources provide opportunities for students to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of Greek myths.

Further Exploration and Resources

Encourage further exploration of Greek mythology by providing additional teacher resources and recommending books such as "The Complete World of Greek Mythology" by Richard Buxton or "D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths" by Ingri and Edgar Parin d'Aulaire. These resources can deepen students' knowledge of archetypes, allusions, ancient Greece, types of heroes, the hero's journey, and specific myths like "The Odyssey" or "Jason and the Golden Fleece."

Frequently Asked Questions about Greek Mythology & the 12 Olympians

Who is the most powerful god in greek mythology.

Zeus , who is known as “The King of all Gods” is the most powerful of all the gods and goddesses. He controlled the sky, storms, thunder, and lightning. Zeus married Hera and they had three children together.

What are the different types of mythology?

The most well known types of mythology are Norse , Egyptian , and Greek. However, there are many other types of mythology from different countries and religions around the world.

What is a myth?

A myth is a story that is about how the world came to be, and why certain events happened. While some may think that myths are not accurate, they were, at one point, believed to be real.

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An Introduction to Greek Mythology

Greek mythology is not only interesting, but it is also the foundation of allusion and character genesis in literature. In this lesson plan, students will gain an understanding of Greek mythology and the Olympian gods and goddesses.

Learning Objectives After completing the lessons in this unit, students will be able to:

• Understand the Greek view of creation.
• Understand the terms Chaos, Gaia, Uranus, Cronus, Zeus, Rhea, Hyperboreans, Ethiopia, Mediterranean, and Elysian Fields.
• Describe the Greek view of the world’s geography.
• Identify the names and key features of the Olympian gods/goddesses.
• Create their own god/goddess.
• Create their own myth explaining a natural phenomenon.
• D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths by Ingri and Edgar Parin D’Aulaire
• The Gods and Goddesses of Olympus by Aliki
• The Mighty 12: Superheroes of Greek Myths by Charles Smith
• Greek Myths and Legends by Cheryl Evans
• Mythology by Edith Hamilton (which served as a source for this lesson plan)
• A paper plate for each student
• Internet access to look up relevant sites

Note: Do not give student(s) the filled-in copy of the Gods/Goddesses chart. That is your answer key.

Lesson 1: Greek Creation Mythology

Although when we think of mythology we think of a collection of stories, there is a beginning to them. Understanding the beginning of the story, the creation of the world, gives us a framework to build upon as we learn about the different myths.

The short answer to how the Greeks viewed the creation of the world is this: Scary old gods came first; they got stomped down by their kids, who were better looking, younger gods. These gods created humans. Humans and gods fought for supremacy, and the humans won a few rounds but eventually got trounced and became more and more miserable.

Now, the longer answer: In the beginning, the universe was without form. It was not nothing; there was matter, but it was unorganized, shapeless, mixed up and dark. This was called Chaos.

After Chaos, more divinities, or gods, came into being.

Gaia, the Earth, held up Uranus, the sky. Gaia and Uranus had a bunch of kids. First they had a bunch of monsters including the Cyclops, and then they created the Titans as the second generation. Uranus hated all the Titans and was actually quite ugly about it — but there are only a couple of Titans that you need to remember: first, Oceanus, the god of the sea, and then Cronus, the strongest and best one of all. Gaia was pretty ticked at Uranus for being a jerk, so she helped Cronus overthrow him.

So, let’s keep this straight. Cronus is Uranus’s son. Cronus became the king (bye-bye Uranus), and married his sister, Rhea — another Titan. It’s like a soap opera. This was called the Golden Age because men, who had been made by a Titan named Prometheus, were living in harmony. Everything was hunky dory.

It didn’t last, though, because Cronus heard a prophecy that one of his sons would dethrone him, so every time his wife, Rhea, had a baby, he swallowed it. Rhea got a little sick of seeing all of her children swallowed alive, so she tricked Cronus when her sixth child, Zeus, was born; she wrapped up a rock to look like a baby and had Cronus swallow that instead. Zeus rescued his previously swallowed siblings, and all was right with the world.

The Greek view of the world was a little different than ours. The Greeks believed that the world was flat, but circular, like a paper plate. At the center of the Universe was Greece.

Their world was divided by the Mediterranean, which means "Middle of the Lands" in Latin. The river Ocean flowed around the world in a clockwise motion.

In the north lived the Hyperboreans — an extremely happy people for whom life was sweet. When the old people became tired of living, they threw themselves into the sea. This was a land of constant vacation where people were said to live for 1,000 years. In the south lived the Ethiopians. In Greek drama, mention is often made of various gods being in Ethiopia, meaning really far away. So, if I say I parked in Ethiopia this morning, would that mean I’m close to my office or far away? The Ethiopians were said to be on good terms with the gods and liked to entertain them. To the west were the Elysian Fields. This was the closest the Greeks got to the idea of heaven; only the best and brightest of the dead people got to go there.

• Read The Gods and Goddesses of Olympus by Aliki.
• Draw your own representation of the Greek view of the world on the paper plate using colored pencils and the map on the previous page as a guideline. Be sure to include the Ethiopians, the Hyperboreans and the Elysian Fields on your map.
• Directions for Paragraph: Begin with a topic sentence. Here is an example: The Greek view of the world both resembles and differs from the contemporary view.
• Next, list two ways the views are similar. Here are examples: The Greek view resembles the contemporary view in that: Additionally, the views are similar because:
• Next, list two ways the views are different. Here are examples: However, the Greek view is not the same as the contemporary view because the Greeks believed The Greeks also thought
• Last, you will state a conclusion. Here’s an example: Therefore, even though the views have similarities, they differ in important ways.

Lesson 2: The Olympian gods

Use the information in this lesson to begin to fill in the gods and goddesses chart at the end of this lesson; you will also need to do your own research to complete it. Now that you understand the way that the Greeks viewed the beginning of the world, you are ready to learn about the Olympian gods.

First, we have to explore exactly what we mean by "Olympian gods." Mount Olympus is a real mountain in the north of Greece. Gradually, it became associated less and less with an actual mountain and more with an imaginary place high above the earth. According to the ancient Greeks, the gate to Olympus was made of clouds and it was guarded by four goddesses, the Seasons. Each god had his or her own dwelling place, but Olympus was home base.

There were up to 14 gods considered Olympian gods. Seven of them were Zeus and his siblings, and seven others were children of Zeus. Sometimes only 12 will be listed. The Greeks and Romans shared mythology, so you will find two names for most gods.

Zeus was the king of the hill. He was dominating, powerful and had a soft spot for pretty women. He could be terrifying when angry. His symbols were the thunderbolts, or lightning bolts made for him by the Cyclopes (his uncles); the eagle; and the scepter, or rod. Please copy this information onto your chart.

Hades, or Pluto, was the god of the underworld and of the dead. He was called the same names by the Romans, but they also sometimes called him Dis or Dis Pater. He was Zeus’s brother and married Persephone after kidnapping her against her will. He was gloomy and frightening.

Next, we have Poseidon, or Neptune, as the Romans called him. He was Zeus’s brother, and he was the god of the sea and also earthquakes. He often is shown with a three-pronged spear called a trident that was made for him by his nephew, Hephaestus, and/or a fish.

Our first goddess is Hera. She sits on the right side of Zeus and is his wife. Of course, she’s his sister, too, but that’s the way it was on Olympus. Hera’s Roman name is Juno, and she is the queen of the gods. She is the guardian of marriage and was well-loved by the Greeks; it’s kind of sad that she’s the goddess of marriage but her own marriage was so bad. She was often jealous of her husband’s girlfriends and did mean things to them, even the ones who didn’t want anything to do with him, but she could be tender and loving as well. The peacock was her symbol. In fact, the circles in a peacock’s tail are said to be the eyes of her 100-eyed servant, Argus.

Next is Athena, or Minerva, the daughter who sprang fully formed from the head of Zeus after a major headache. She is the goddess of wisdom and war and also the protector and namesake of the city of Athens. She preferred reason to violence unless she was pushed. She turned Arachne into a spider for bragging that she could spin better than Athena. She was very competitive and is often pictured with her helmet and a spear. She carried Zeus’s shield, called the aegis. The owl was her bird. Can you see it in her hand?

Apollo was a twin. His Roman name was the same as his Greek name. He was the god of the sun or light, poetry, music and medicine and was famous for his oracles (wise women to whom he gave his power to predict and interpret the future). He was very proud and also protective of his mother and sister. His symbols were the gold bow and arrows, and he often appears golden and shining. He wears a laurel wreath in memory of Daphne, who didn’t want to be his lover and prayed to Mother Earth for help escaping him; she was turned into a laurel tree.

Artemis was Apollo’s twin. Her Roman name was Diana, and she was the goddess of hunting, chastity and the moon. She protects women and small children, is fiercely independent and particularly dislikes men. In pictures, she is seen accompanied by three hunting hounds, a bow and a fawn.

Ares or, as he is known by his Roman name, Mars, was the god of war. He would fight on both sides, if possible. He was young, strong and handsome, and liked to dress in battle clothes even when he wasn’t fighting.

Hephaestus, or Vulcan, was born lame and was further crippled when he was thrown from Olympus by his mother, Hera, in a rage. He was the only Olympian with a disability. He was unhappily married to Aphrodite and worked as a blacksmith in the gods’ forge.

Hephaestus’s wife, Aphrodite, whose Roman name was Venus, was the goddess of love and beauty. She was born out of sea foam when the blood of Uranus dropped into the ocean. She was the mother of Eros and was irresistibly charming, fickle, vain and competitive. Her symbol was a cestus, or magic belt, that made everyone fall in love with the wearer; sometimes she would lend it to humans. This is a famous painting of the birth of Venus, or Aphrodite, by Botticelli.

Dionysus was the partier of the mountain retreat. He was Zeus’s son by another woman, who was driven crazy by Hera and her jealousy. Dionysus went all around teaching people how to make wine and having a good time. Eventually, Hestia gave up her throne for him, and he lived on Olympus. He was the god of wine, of course, and also vegetation.

Hermes, or Mercury, was the god of science and invention, but he is best known as the messenger of the gods. He is often pictured with a winged helmet and sandals. He is said to have invented the alphabet, boxing and gymnastics! In this painting by Goltzius, you can see his helmet with wings; he’s not wearing his famous sandals, though.

Demeter was the goddess of the crops and the harvest. She is also known as Ceres (Roman) and sometimes Deo. Her symbols include a torch, a crown, a scepter and stalks of grain. She is often portrayed with her daughter, Persephone, who was kidnapped by Hades and taken to the underworld. By the time she was rescued, she’d eaten six pomegranate seeds, so she couldn’t escape the underworld entirely. Her mother was so frantic that winter draped the land and no crops would grow. A deal was struck, and Persephone was allowed to return to her mother for half of the year. So each year, when she returns to the underworld, fall comes, then winter — but when she returns to her mother, spring and summer come again.

Hestia was Zeus’s sister and the goddess and protectress of hearth and home. She is also known by her Roman name, Vesta. She was gentle and kind and was very popular with the Greeks. She didn’t have a lot of adventures, so she’s rarely pictured in art.

Now, use at least two sources in addition to what you read here to fill in your chart (next page) completely. Write down the sources you used on the back of the chart.

Book suggestions

• (If your library doesn’t have these, check around Dewey Decimal No. 398.2. That’s where Greek mythology is.)

Web references

• Some Great Greek Myths
• Mythography
• Encyclopedia Mythica

Lesson 3: Mythology biographical poem

A biographical poem, or biopoem, uses a simple but specific structure to describe the most important facts about someone. Your assignment is to write a biopoem about one of the gods or goddesses you have studied. You may choose any god or goddess (except Aphrodite, because she’s the example below). The blanks bewlow are for your rough draft. When you’re done, copy your final version onto a separate sheet of paper and, if you would like, decorate it.

Follow this format exactly, please:

Example (you may not use this goddess):

Aphrodite, Goddess of Love, Desire, Beauty and Fertility. A daughter of Zeus and Dione; wife of Hephaestus. Lover of sons Aeneas and Cupid and brother Ares. Who protects sailors. Who needs a chariot. Who fears War, Athena and Hera. Who gives Helen to Paris, a magic belt to Hera, and Medea to Jason. Resident of Mt. Olympus. Venus.

Lesson 4: Olympians quiz

Time to test yourself — and beware, answers may be used more than once!

• If you could have dinner with one god or goddess, who would it be and why?
• Which god or goddess do you think would make the best president and why?
• Imagine that Zeus has come to you and said that Olympus is lacking a god or goddess, and he needs you to help. Invent a new Olympian and describe him or her below.

Lesson 5: Putting it all together

Myths are a way of understanding the world. This lesson has been about Greek mythology, but every culture has myths. Myths define social customs and beliefs, explain natural and psychological phenomena, and provide a way for people to discuss things that cause anxiety.

Mythology is all around us. Here are just a few examples of places we find myths today:

• Days of the week — Wednesday (Woden or Odin — Norse god); Thursday (Thor — Norse god); Friday (Freya — Norse goddess); Saturday (Saturn — Roman god who ruled before Jove)
• Cars — Toyota Avalon and Cressida, Cadillac El Dorado, Honda Odyssey, Mercury
• Shoes — Nike
• Tires — Midas
• Astronomy — Constellations like Orion, the Argo, all of the planets and the Pleiades. The Milky Way itself was supposedly the road over which the stars traveled to Jupiter’s palace.
• NASA — The first part of U.S. space program was Project Mercury, named after the messenger of the gods because the project’s purpose was to send a message to the Soviets that America was in the space race. The Gemini Project was next; Gemini is Latin for "twins," and the project was called this because the capsule held two astronauts. Apollo astronauts rode on Saturn rockets.

Myths also make great stories. They come up in literature all over the place, from really serious stuff like Dante to comic strips. Myths inspire music; actually the word music comes from the mythological muses who inspired art of all kinds. Painters such as Michelangelo and Botticelli were inspired by myths. Even children’s movies are a good place to look for myths; you will find them everywhere, including Snow White, Star Wars and The Lord of the Rings. Can you find at least three examples of mythology connections in the world?

Lesson 6: Create your own myth

Hopefully myths inspire you, too, because you are about to create your own myth! As you know, myths were often used to explain natural phenomena. Your challenge is to create your own myth to explain some natural phenomenon or land formation. It could be anything from the origin of hurricanes to how the Grand Canyon or a mountain range was created. You will tell this myth in a story format.

Here are the guidelines:

• Your story must involve at least two Olympian gods or goddesses. It may contain other gods or goddesses as well.
• Your story must explain some natural phenomenon (such as a weather event) or some geological feature (a mountain range, a large valley, a sea, an ocean, a polar ice cap, etc.).
• Your story should be at least 350 words.
• Your story must have a clear beginning, middle and end.
• Your story should clearly show that you know something about Greek mythology. You will do this by including details about the Olympian gods and goddesses that show you know their powers, symbols and personalities.

Here are some ideas to get you thinking:

• Where did the Rocky Mountains come from?
• Where did the Mississippi River come from?
• What made the North and/or South Pole(s)?
• Why is Earth the third planet from the sun?
• Why is it dark at night?
• What is in the middle of the earth?

This series of lessons was designed to meet the needs of gifted children for extension beyond the standard curriculum with the greatest ease of use for the educator. The lessons may be given to the students for individual self-guided work, or they may be taught in a classroom or a home-school setting. Assessment strategies and rubrics are included at the end of each section. The rubrics often include a column for "scholar points," which are invitations for students to extend their efforts beyond that which is required, incorporating creativity or higher level technical skills.

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It Came From Greek Mythology

Head of Athena; Stone Sculpture, circa 200 B.C.

Wikimedia Commons

"And when I was a schoolchild, I loved those old stories ... They have mystery, treachery, murder, loyalty, romance, magic, monsters—everything is in there. So I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t interested in mythology and that just continued when I was a teacher." — Rick Riordan,  Episode for Families: Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief at the Met

Monsters, gods, and heroes ... all surefire favorites in the classroom and the stuff of Greek mythology. But Greek mythology offers so much more: inspiration for many works of art (both written and visual), insight into the human condition, a glimpse at an ancient people trying to make sense of phenomena they could not explain, and the source for many names and terms we use today. Your students might be surprised to find they're wearing shoes with the name of a Greek goddess (Nike), rooting for (or against) a team named after Greek gods (Tennessee Titans), and even listening to rock groups with mythological names (Styx).

The lessons in this unit provide you with an opportunity to use online resources to further enliven your students' encounter with Greek mythology, to deepen their understanding of what myths meant to the ancient Greeks, and to help them appreciate the meanings that Greek myths have for us today. In the lessons below, students will learn about Greek conceptions of the hero, the function of myths as explanatory accounts, the presence of mythological terms in contemporary culture, and the ways in which mythology has inspired later artists and poets.

Guiding Questions

What meanings did myths about gods, goddesses, and heroes have for the ancient Greeks?

What meanings do the Greek myths have for us today?

Learning Objectives

Describe the basic plots of several Greek myths.

Discuss three types of themes in Greek myths: stories about heroes, stories about "how it came to be," and stories about the consequences of unwise behavior.

Cite examples of contemporary use of terms from Greek mythology.

Analyze artistic and literary works based on or inspired by Greek myths.

Lesson Plan Details

Heroes were an important part of Greek mythology, but the characteristics Greeks admired in a hero are not necessarily identical to those we admire today. Greek heroes are not always what modern readers might think of as "good role models." Their actions may strike us as morally dubious. For example, in his encounter with the Cyclops, Odysseus helps himself to the giant's food without permission, attacks while the Cyclops is in a wine-induced stupor, and brags about blinding the one-eyed creature. This does not mean the Greeks admired thievery and bragging, however. What they admired about Odysseus, in this instance, was his capacity for quick thinking. Odysseus defied that which others would not (as is also shown by his desire to hear the Sirens' song) and pulled off great feats with panache and self-confidence.

Although myths convey exciting stories about gods and heroes, they are not equivalent to "stories" either in the modern sense of a deliberate fiction or the traditional sense of a folk tale or tall story. Rather, myths are traditional narratives often of gods, goddess, and heroes, great deeds and supernatural powers, that are passed down through various textual and visual sources and convey commonly held beliefs in a particular society about natural phenomena, historical events, and proper behavior. The lessons below will help students to understand this important distinction.

The Greek myths were not composed as stories for children. The Greeks were not shy about treating sexually explicit subjects. Although the links provided below are generally "cleaned up" versions of the myths, you should review all materials for appropriateness before presenting them to your students.

Not all Greek heroes were admired for the same reasons. Some, such as Odysseus, were admired for their resourcefulness and intelligence, whereas others, such as Herakles, were known for their strength and courage. Some were not particularly resourceful but depended on help to accomplish their tasks.

Whether or not a given action or quality was admired depended upon its ultimate results. Being headstrong might succeed in one instance but lead to failure in another. The Greeks held their characters accountable for their actions, and a hero might be punished as well as rewarded.

NCSS.D2.His.1.3-5. Create and use a chronological sequence of related events to compare developments that happened at the same time.

NCSS.D2.His.2.3-5. Compare life in specific historical time periods to life today.

NCSS.D2.His.3.3-5. Generate questions about individuals and groups who have shaped significant historical changes and continuities.

Note to the teacher: Be sure to review any material before distributing it to the class. While the Bullfinch versions of the Greek myths are generally "cleaned up," some versions you find may not be appropriate for your students.

• Review each activity in this unit, locate the tales you want to share with your class and select archival materials to use for Activity 5. If possible, bookmark these materials, along with other useful websites; download and print out selected documents and duplicate copies as necessary for student viewing.
• If practical, use your usual read-aloud time to share myths with the class. The tales chosen for this lesson are representative and widely available; however, other tales could serve the same purposes.
• The tales used in this lesson are available in many versions written expressly for younger readers. In the Other Resources section of this unit, you will find a list of recommended sources for Greek myths from EDSITEment-reviewed websites and links. Almost all of the tales mentioned in this lesson can be found in The Macmillan Book of Greek Gods and Heroes by Alice Low, illustrated by Arvis Stewart (New York: Macmillan Publishing Company, 1985). This volume contains a varied selection of short versions of tales that work as read-alouds and as a source for a study of comparative myth (this collection contains the Greek creation story and a tale about a great flood, for example). It is illustrated and often available in school libraries.
• Atalanta (Another version of this story is available on Odyssey Online.)
• Athena (Minerva) , includes the story of Arachne
• Echo and Narcissus
• Herakles (Hercules) (More on Herakles is available on Odyssey Online and The Perseus Digital Library .)
• Odysseus (Ulysses): Ulysses's Adventures
• The Return of Odysseus (Ulysses)
• Persephone (Proserpine) (Another version of the story is available on Odyssey Online.)
• The National Archives Teacher Resources , available through EDSITEment, offers a series of worksheets for analyzing primary source documents , including written documents, that you may wish to use or adapt to help students in reviewing the materials presented in this unit.

Activity 1. Rick Riordan Discusses Mythology

As an introduction to this curriculum unit, and as a way of leveraging student interest in the Percy Jackson books and movie, have students watch this video of Rick Riordan, author of the award-winning children's book series Percy Jackson and the Olympians . (Note this can be done as homework the night before class.) Here are some questions for students to answer.

• What is the appeal of mythology according to Riordan? What does Hemingway mean by the “mutability” of myths? Ask students to give their own examples of “mutability”.
• Why did Riordan make Percy the son of Poseidon rather than Zeus?
• Ask students to give examples of the influence of Greek or Roman mythology in the present day world.
• Why did Riordan set the first scene in his novel at the Metropolitan Museum?
• What connection does Riordan draw between Greek gods, comic book superheroes and today’s teenagers?

Activity 2. Heroes Then and Now

Shortly before introducing Greek hero tales, give students a day or two to each identify a contemporary hero. Students can use print or other media as their source, but they should be prepared to explain what makes that person a hero.

Encourage students to share their stories of contemporary heroism. Compile a list of characteristics of our contemporary heroes. Enter these characteristics in the first row of this accompanying PDF chart . Beside the characteristic, cite the individual who fits the characteristic and what s/he did to exemplify that characteristic.

Explain to the students that they will study hero tales from Greek mythology to see which qualities of heroism do and do not match our contemporary ideas.

Share some Greek hero tales with the class; if practical, use your usual read-aloud time for this. The following stories could be introduced on consecutive days.

• Offer this hypothetical situation to the students: You're trapped in a room with your greatest enemy, who has the only key and superior strength. How would you get out? Now share the story of Odysseus and the Cyclops . What personal traits allowed Odysseus to escape? What personal traits got him into (or might get him into) trouble?
• For another take on the Greek hero, share the tale of Odysseus and the Sirens. Odysseus simply must hear the Sirens' song, because no other mortal has heard the song and survived. Though Odysseus's strength of character (and physical strength) fails him when confronted with the Sirens' song, his wits save him thanks to his pre-arrangements to prevent escape. In the process, Odysseus learns about himself.
• Ask the students to brainstorm a list of chores they would really hate to do (even worse than the chores they already do). Then read the story of Hercules and the Twelve Labors. The EDSITEment resource The Perseus Digital Library has an illustrated online exhibit about Hercules that includes a retelling of the Twelve Labors. How would the students like to do Hercules's chores? What personal traits allowed Hercules to succeed? What personal traits got him into trouble?
• For a tale with a female heroine, read the story of Atalanta from the EDSITEment resources Bullfinch's Mythology . In what ways is she like and unlike a male Greek hero?

Working as a class, compile a list of the characteristics Greeks admired in a hero. Add the information to the chart as with the contemporary heroes. How does a Greek hero compare to a modern hero? Are any of the traits identical? Who on the student list of contemporary heroes most closely resembles a Greek hero? What contemporary person (not necessarily an actor) would students choose to play the various parts in a movie of the tales you've shared?

For additional hero tales, share stories about Perseus, Jason, or Theseus.

Activity 3. Behave Yourself

In their mythology, poetry, and plays, the Greeks held characters accountable for their own choices, actions, and behavior. As you read any or all of the following stories to the class, help students understand that these stories teach lessons about behaviors that were considered disagreeable or foolish by the Greeks.

• Ask the students about echoes they have heard. Where was the best echo they have ever heard? What causes echoes?
• Tell the tale of Echo and Narcissus available through the EDSITEment resource Bullfinch's Mythology . In what way was having to echo a fitting punishment for Echo? How does this tale explain what causes echoes? How did the story dramatize poor behavior?
• If desired, offer this writing challenge to students, based on an assignment conceived by poet Kenneth Koch. Begin by reviewing some examples of ways Echo communicated effectively using only an echo. Can your students (working alone or in pairs) create a dialogue that makes sense in which one party can only echo? Give some straightforward examples, such as: Teacher: Here is the assignment you will do. Student: Will do! Ask the students to suggest examples of this sort. Next, offer a variety of other possible echoes: Part of a word: Student #1: Who is doing the report on Narcissus? Student #2: Us. A homophone for a word: Student #1: Is that Billy I hear? Student #2: Here! Ask the students to suggest examples of this sort. Then give them the opportunity to write their own dialogues (or poems, where the ending of one line is echoed at the beginning of the next). When the students have finished, give volunteers the opportunity to perform their dialogues.
• Share with the class this definition of narcissism drawn from a standard print or online dictionary: "too much interest in and admiration for your own physical appearance and/or your own abilities." Then ask students, if someone is termed a "narcissist", what would that mean? Can the students name a fictional character from any medium who could be called a narcissist? Is that a trait we admire in people?
• Relate the tale of Narcissus . Have students examine Caravaggio’s painting of Narcissus from the Web Gallery of Art site. As students, was Narcissus's fate a fitting end for him? How did the story dramatize his arrogance and the consequences of this behavior?
• Tell the tale of Phaethon, available through the EDSITEment resource Bullfinch's Mythology . Have students look at the interactive version of Peter Paul Rubens’ painting of the Fall of Phaeton at the National Gallery of Art Classroom. Ask students, was Phaeton's fate a fitting end for him? How did the story dramatize his youthful rashness and its consequences?
• Share the lesson of Icarus  in the DAEDALUS story available through the EDSITEment resource Bullfinch's Mythology . As students, was Icarus's fate a fitting end for him? How did the story dramatize his inappropriate choices?

After hearing these stories, ask students to name some character traits the Greeks did or did not admire. Create a list of students' suggestions; adjust the chart from Activity 3 as needed.

Activity 4. How It Came to Be

Greek myths often attempted to explain mysterious elements of the natural world. How did the Echo story explain what causes an echo? How did the Phaeton story explain how the sun moves across the sky and why the land of Libya is a desert? Spiders have adapted to catch prey through the creation of webs. How does the story of Arachne explain the origin of spiders?

Many of the constellations, such as those associated with the astrological signs, are named after characters from Greek myths. What signs of the zodiac can the students name? Does anyone in the class recognize any of the zodiac constellations? How does the story of Cassiopeia , in the "Perseus and Atlas" segment of Chapter XV, available through the EDSITEment resource Bullfinch’s Mythology , explain a constellation?

The Constellation Table at the site The Constellations , allows students to read about many constellations, generally with information from the Greek stories about how the constellation came to be.

Activity 5. It Came from a Myth (Part 1)

Display an appropriate selection of the following images from EDSITEment-reviewed resources in the classroom (or in the computer lab, if practical). Conduct a scavenger hunt by numbering the images and giving the students a list of the characters portrayed in the artwork. How many characters can the students identify?

Atalanta's Race against Hippomenes , on  The Fitzwilliam Museum , University of Cambridge , UK. (Image of Atalanta racing against Hippomenes with golden apples.)

The Constellation Cassiopeia , on Mythical and Geographical Names

• Daedalus and Icarus by Anthony Van Dyke from the Art Gallery of Ontario website and The Fall of Icarus by Peter Breughel from the Web Gallery of Art . (To find this image, enter “Daedalus and Icarus” into the title field of Internet Art Gallery’s search engine .)
• Herakles Fighting the Hydra , on The Perseus Digital Library
• Odysseus and Polyphemos , on The Perseus Digital Library
• Odysseus, tied to mast of ship with wax in ears, and the attack of the Sirens: Thebes, c. 480–470 BCE , available on British Museum, Research .

These are just a handful of the images available online, and you can find many more by searching the Perseus Digital Library . When you have chosen a selection of images, share them with the class, and discuss any images that students find especially interesting or in some way troubling.

Activity 6. It Came from a Myth (Part 2)

Mythological terms are common in contemporary society. For example, an odyssey is a voyage, as well as a minivan! As students learn more about the characters of Greek mythology, they may be surprised to discover many familiar words derived from myths.

Working in small groups, students can use print or online sources to fill in as many blanks as possible on a chart like the one below. (NOTE: Depending on the class, it might be advisable for the teacher to attempt this search first to gauge how difficult it will be and to be prepared to direct students.) Most of the terms can be found in a standard collegiate dictionary; while some contemporary uses will not be included in the dictionary, such as Amazon .com or the Tennessee Titans, many of these will be known to the students. Where the technology is available, students can search online at Encyclopedia.com or Factmonster , both links from the EDSITEment resource The Internet Public Library, or the searchable Perseus Encyclopedia , found on the EDSITEment resource The Perseus Digital Library .

Groups can be assigned specific terms or everyone can attempt everything. Set a time limit for research before students begin the assignment.

Note: Chart is available as a PDF that you may wish to download and reproduce for student use.

Activity 7. Myth as an Inspiration for Art and Poetry

Students have now seen examples of the influence of Greek mythology in art, language, science, and commerce. Share with students some of the ways that mythology has also been the inspiration for later works of fiction and poetry.

First, share with your class the paintings by Anthony Van Dyke Daedalus and Icarus and by Pieter Brueghel the Elder, Landscape with the Fall of Icarus available through the Web Museum of Art a link from the EDSITEment resource Internet Public Library. Give students time to study the paintings in detail. Can they figure out what Daedulus is telling Icarus in the Van Dyke picture? Why is the Brueghel painting called “Landscape with the Fall of Icarus”? (Note the single leg of Icarus falling into the water in the lower right hand corner of the painting.) Does anyone in the painting seem to be paying attention to Icarus’s plunge into the water? How prominent has the painter made the event of Icarus’s fall? What meanings do such details suggest?

Now read to the class the poems by W.H. Auden “ Musee des Beaux Arts” available on the Harpers.org and a poem by William Carlos Williams, “ Landscape with the Fall of Icarus ,” available on the EDSITEment-reviewed Academy of American Poets .

Does Williams capture the feeling of the painting? How do Brueghel and Williams reinterpret the myth of Icarus for their own times? How have these artists "made the myth their own": understood it, interpreted it, and somehow extended its meaning?

• Ask students to create original writing inspired by myth. Each student should choose a character from Greek mythology and tell the character’s story looking for a different take, as Breughal did, or put the mythical character in a new situation. Before writing, students could discuss how Brueghel and Williams made mythology relevant to their own times, and what mythological themes and meanings are still relevant for the world students live in now.
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• Students interested in the use of mythological terms in astronomy should check out Mythical and Geographical Names  for an extensive list.
• Interactive Activity: The EDSITEment resource Odyssey Online offers a variety of activities for elementary and middle school students to explore, including games. Through the site, you can also find information on many mythologies for students interested in comparative myths.

Recommended Websites

• National Archives Educator Resources
• Mythical and Geographical Names
• Artcyclopedia
• Bullfinch’s Mythology
• Caravaggio's painting of Narcissus
• The Cambridge Dictionary Online
• Encyclopedia.com
• Factmonster
• WWWebster Dictionary
• Metropolitan Museum Greek and Roman Collection
• New Greek Galleries
• Welcome to World Mythology Minneapolis Institute of Arts
• An audio retelling of the Phaeton story
• The Perseus Digital Library

Recommended Further Reading in Greek and Roman Mythology

• Aliki. The Gods and Goddesses of Olympus . Harper Collins, 1994.
• d’Aulaire,Ingri. D'Aulaire's Book of Greek Myths . Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 1992.
• Evslin, Bernard. Heroes, Gods, and Monsters of the Greek Myths . Scholastic Magazines, 1966
• Fisher, Leonard Everett. Theseus & the Minotaur . Holiday, 1988.
• Fleischman, Paul. Dateline: Troy . Candlewick, 2006.
• Philip, Neil. The Adventures of Odysseus . New Ed, 1997.
• Russell, William F. Classic Myths to Read Aloud: The Great Stories of Greek and Roman Mythology, Specially Arranged for Children Five and Up by an Educational Expert . Three Rivers Press, 1992
• Sutcliff, Rosemary. The Wanderings of Odysseus . Laurel Leaf, 2005.
• Williams, Marcia. The Iliad and the Odyssey . Candlewick Press, 1996.
• Yolen, Jane. Wings . Harcourt, 1997.

Materials & Media

It came from greek mythology: worksheet 1, related on edsitement, live from ancient olympia, what makes a hero, in old pompeii, portrait of a hero.

To put it simply, Greek mythology is confusing. First, there’s a long list of gods and goddesses—with sometimes hard-to-pronounce names—who star in these complicated tales. And adding to the confusion are the many complex plots, and subplots, which often overlap one another. 

But even with all its complexities, Greek mythology is totally engrossing. Students always enjoy reading stories about lightning bolt-wielding gods and erupting volcanoes. They even love to act these stories out, if they’re given the chance. 

To introduce students to Greek mythology and ultimately inspire them to put on a few performances based on these fascinating myths, there are a number of books and activities teachers can turn to. Here’s where to start:

Heroes and Monsters of Greek Myth  (Grades 7–12)

In  Heroes & Monsters of Greek Myth , readers are introduced to the most compelling characters of the genre—the heroes and monsters. This book also features 4 classic stories of the demigods and 2 fables, with an afterword that provides students important information regarding the structure of Greek mythology.

Greek Mythology Activities (Grades 5 and up)

Interviewing a god or goddess and mapping activities in  Greek Mythology Activities  help students understand everything they need to know about Greek mythology and learn important vocabulary that’s so instrumental to the genre.

Favorite Greek Myths  (Grades 5–7)

This  book  features 12 classic stories from Greek mythology, including stories of Echo and Narcissus, and Cupid and Psyche. 

Curtain Call

With the above books and activities, students will build a solid foundation of knowledge related to Greek mythology. So now, of course, it’s time to put on a performance. Using  Greek Myth Plays  as a guide, students can pick short scripts to act out that feature parts to accommodate all your young readers. Here’s a 5-day plan for putting on a class play:

Give students the script and ask them to read it independently. If they come across any new vocabulary, encourage them to look those words up, and once they’re done reading, ask them to write a brief summary of the play. Additionally, choose a director and have them assign roles.

Help students read through the play and brainstorm ideas for staging, props, costumes, and music. Encourage the director to assign additional tasks to actors and members of the stage crew.

With supplies brought in by students, start creating the set and rehearse the play. Instruct the director to reflect on what’s going well and where there’s room for improvement.

Put on a dress rehearsal.

It’s showtime!

Putting on these performances takes time and patience, but the more you do, the easier the process becomes. You’ll quickly see all the rewarding aspects these performances bring out in students, from improved fluency skills to better teamwork. Most importantly, learning about something as complex as Greek mythology and performing plays based on these myths will expand students’ comfort zones and help build their confidence. If they can put on a performance and act out a complex story filled with Greek gods, goddesses, heroes, and monsters, they can do anything!

Greek Mythology

Our Greek Mythology lesson plan teaches students about Greek mythology as a whole as well as particular myths and tropes. Students practice identifying some Greek myths and use popular tropes to create their own modern myth.

Included with this lesson are some adjustments or additions that you can make if you’d like, found in the “Options for Lesson” section of the Classroom Procedure page. One of the optional additions to this lesson is to plan a “Greek Week” where students dress up as gods or goddess, you read myths aloud each day, and you serve Greek food.

Description

Additional information, what our greek mythology lesson plan includes.

Lesson Objectives and Overview: Greek Mythology introduces students to Greek mythology. Many students have heard some of the myths and stories, yet they do not know their source. At the end of the lesson, students will be able to define myth and identify various Greek myths and explaining their purpose. This lesson is for students in 4th grade, 5th grade, and 6th grade.

Classroom Procedure

Every lesson plan provides you with a classroom procedure page that outlines a step-by-step guide to follow. You do not have to follow the guide exactly. The guide helps you organize the lesson and details when to hand out worksheets. It also lists information in the yellow box that you might find useful. You will find the lesson objectives, state standards, and number of class sessions the lesson should take to complete in this area. In addition, it describes the supplies you will need as well as what and how you need to prepare beforehand. The supplies you will need for this lesson are Internet access, colored pencils, scratch paper, final copy paper, word processors, and the handouts. To prepare for this lesson ahead of time, you can pair students for the activity, find myths to share with the class, and copy the handouts.

Options for Lesson

Included with this lesson is an “Options for Lesson” section that lists a number of suggestions for activities to add to the lesson or substitutions for the ones already in the lesson. One optional adjustment to the lesson activity is to compile the completed stories into a classroom book of myths. You can also assign a Greek god or goddess to each student for the activity instead of letting them choose their own. Students can also vote on the best new myth, most creative myth, and more. You can research other cultures’ myths and read them to the class. Finally, you can plan a “Greek Week” where students dress up as gods or goddess, you read myths aloud each day, and you serve Greek food.

Teacher Notes

The teacher notes page includes a paragraph with additional guidelines and things to think about as you begin to plan your lesson. This page also includes lines that you can use to add your own notes as you’re preparing for this lesson.

GREEK MYTHOLOGY LESSON PLAN CONTENT PAGES

The Greek Mythology lesson plan includes three content pages. The lesson begins by telling students that the names of the planets, as well as mermaids and dragons, originate in stories that were passed down through history. Each of them are based in different traditions.

We call traditional stories that are related to the early history of a group of people or culture a myth. They explain natural or social phenomenon and many include supernatural beings or events. Most people know at least a few myths.

Myths aren’t true. They are imaginary and might relate to religious beliefs or rituals. People use them to explain things such as fire, the seasons, lighting, thunder, and more. We use them to teach people how to behave and live with each other. The characters in myths might be gods, goddesses, monsters, or heroes.

Different people have created myths, like Native Americans, Egyptians, Romans, Indians, and more. However, Ancient Greek mythology is the most prominent kind. We still tell Greek myths to this day.

Ancient Greece

Ancient Greece existed before the Roman Empire and influenced Roman culture. Most Western cultures have their foundations in Ancient Greek government, philosophy, science, art, math, and more. Ancient Greece existed from about 800 BC to 146 BC, when the Romans conquered Greece.

Many Greek people believed in the myths that helped them understand their world, the environment, the passage of time, and more. They wanted to understand where their people came from. They turned to myths for advice, information, connections to their ancestors, and for education. Not all people believed in them, however.

Lots of Greek people worshipped the gods and goddesses from their myths. The term Greek mythology includes all of the stories and tales about the various gods and goddesses. They appeared in different stories, but their characteristics remained the same across different myths and stories. These gods and goddesses had one or multiple magical powers, which they used for good, for trickery, and for adventures. Ancient Greek storytellers recited myths rather than writing them down, and they often told them differently.

We have thousands of stories and many gods and goddesses across Greek mythology. All of these stories aimed to capture the imaginations of people for thousands and thousands of years.

Greek Gods and Goddesses

Lots of Greek gods and goddesses were related to each other. Hercules was the son of Zeus, and Zeus’ wife was his sister, Hera. We have many more examples of this. The gods and goddesses were each patrons in Ancient Greece. For example, Zeus was the the god of sky and lightning. Each god or goddess also has their own symbol, myths, and stories. Some Greek gods were Titan, who ruled the world. Other were Olympians, who defeated the Titans. Some were relatives of one or both groups.

The lesson includes a chart that lists many Greek gods and goddesses. It lists what they were the god or goddess of, some information and symbols related to them, and their related myths or powers. For example, Cronus is the god of time, leader of the Titans, and his related myth is the creation of the world. Oceanus is the goddess of motherhood and fertility, is the wife of Cronus and queen of the Titans, and is the source of all rivers. The lesson lists 17 gods and goddesses in the chart for students to review.

Greek myths also contained monsters and creatures like Centaurs, Cerberus, Cyclopes, Griffins, Hydra, Satyrs, and Medusa. Lots of these monsters are part-man and part-creature. Medusa, for example, was a Gorgon with a woman’s face and snakes for hair. Looking into her eyes would turn you into stone.

We have many more Greek gods, goddesses, heroes, monsters, and creatures. Lots of these became common names in myths and stories from throughout the world. People remain fascinated by Greek Mythology to this day. The stories contain tales of romance, adventure, battles, and power for people of all ages.

GREEK MYTHOLOGY LESSON PLAN WORKSHEETS

The Greek Mythology lesson plan includes three worksheets: an activity worksheet, a practice worksheet, and a homework assignment. You can refer to the guide on the classroom procedure page to determine when to hand out each worksheet.

NEW MYTH ACTIVITY WORKSHEET

Students will work with a partner to complete the lesson activity. Each pair will create a new myth with a minimum of four and a maximum of six characters. They will use the Internet to read examples of different myths, taking note of how the characters interact. Their myth must include dialogue, scenery, action, and other common features of myths. They should include images. Each pair will create a rough draft of their myth before creating a final copy.

Students can work with alone or in groups of three for this activity if you’d prefer.

MATCHING PRACTICE WORKSHEET

The practice worksheet asks students to complete two short exercises. For the first, they will determine which god or goddess each person would most likely turn into in Ancient Greece. For the second, they will decide if different statements about Greek Mythology are true or false.

GREEK MYTHOLOGY HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT

For the homework assignment, students will first match creature descriptions to their names. They will then create a new Greek mythology monster or creature, including a drawing, description, and a name.

Worksheet Answer Keys

This lesson plan includes answer keys for the practice worksheet and the homework assignment.  If you choose to administer the lesson pages to your students via PDF, you will need to save a new file that omits these pages. Otherwise, you can simply print out the applicable pages and keep these as reference for yourself when grading assignments.

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I used this to support a literature unit reading a Percy Jackson Graphic Novel. It definitely helped reinforce the concept of Greek Gods.

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Very useful to teach my students who are learning History through English

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This resource is ready to go and provides some simple practical worksheets for classes.

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This online resource site has wonderful materials and lesson plans. I downloaded an outstanding lesson plan on Greek gods and mythology for an elementary ESL class. I highly recommend Clarendon Learning and will use this learning site again.

Excellent resources for home schooling - highly recommended

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In the world of ancient Greece , mythology played a fundamental role in shaping the beliefs and practices of its people. These stories of gods, goddesses, and epic heroes were not just tales to be told around the fire, but were deeply ingrained in the daily lives of the Greeks. From the powerful Olympians to the fearsome monsters, this rich and complex mythology has captivated people for centuries. In this article, we will take a closer look at the role that mythology played in ancient Greek society. We will explore the origins of these stories, their significance in religious and cultural practices, and how they have continued to influence art, literature, and popular culture to this day.

Whether you are a history buff or simply curious about ancient civilizations, join us as we delve into the fascinating world of Greek mythology .To provide a comprehensive understanding of Greek mythology, it is essential to cover its origins, major gods and goddesses , famous myths, and their impact on ancient Greek society. Greek mythology is a collection of stories and beliefs that were created by the ancient Greeks to explain the world around them. These myths were passed down through generations and played a significant role in shaping the culture and beliefs of the people. The origins of Greek mythology can be traced back to the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt. The Greeks were heavily influenced by these cultures and incorporated many of their gods and stories into their own mythology.

For example, the god Zeus in Greek mythology shares similarities with the Mesopotamian god Enlil, while the story of creation in Greek mythology has parallels with the Egyptian creation myth. The pantheon of gods and goddesses in Greek mythology is vast and complex. The twelve Olympian gods, led by Zeus, were the most important deities in ancient Greece. Each god had their own unique powers and responsibilities, and they often intervened in the lives of mortals. The relationships between the gods were also quite intricate, with many stories depicting their rivalries, alliances, and love affairs. One of the most famous myths in Greek mythology is the Trojan War.

This ten-year-long conflict between the Greeks and Trojans was caused by the goddess Aphrodite's promise to Paris, a Trojan prince, that he would win the most beautiful woman in the world. The war resulted in the destruction of Troy and is a prime example of how gods and goddesses played a significant role in human affairs. Another popular myth is the Twelve Labors of Hercules. These tasks were given to Hercules as punishment for killing his wife and children while under a spell from the goddess Hera. They were meant to be impossible for a mortal to complete, but Hercules succeeded with the help of his strength and intelligence.

Diving into Famous Myths and Legends

Uncovering the roots of greek mythology.

The Mesopotamians had a rich and complex mythology, with gods and goddesses who were believed to control the natural world. Many of the Greek gods and goddesses were based on these Mesopotamian deities, with similar names and attributes. The Egyptians also had a major influence on Greek mythology. The Greeks borrowed many of their gods and goddesses from the Egyptian pantheon, including Isis, Osiris, and Horus. The story of the god Dionysus, for example, has strong similarities to the Egyptian god Osiris. The Phoenicians, a seafaring civilization, also played a role in shaping Greek mythology.

The Impact of Myths on Ancient Greek Society

They provided a framework for understanding the world and gave people a sense of order and purpose. Myths also influenced the traditions and rituals of ancient Greece. Many festivals and ceremonies were dedicated to specific gods and goddesses, such as the festival of Dionysus, the god of wine, fertility, and theatre. These rituals were an essential part of daily life and helped reinforce societal values and norms. Furthermore, myths played a significant role in shaping societal norms in ancient Greece. Many myths depicted the ideal behaviors and values that were expected of individuals within the community.

Exploring the Pantheon of Gods and Goddesses

For example, Zeus is often depicted as a powerful, wise leader who wields thunderbolts as his weapon. Hera is portrayed as a jealous and vengeful wife to Zeus. Athena is known for her intelligence and strategic thinking, while Ares represents violence and war. Learning about these major gods and goddesses provides a deeper understanding of the values and beliefs held by ancient Greeks. In conclusion, we have explored the fascinating world of Greek mythology and its enduring legacy in modern society.

Through uncovering the roots of these ancient tales, exploring the pantheon of gods and goddesses, and diving into famous myths and legends, we have gained a deeper understanding of the impact that these stories had on ancient Greek society. Not only did these myths shape their culture and beliefs, but they also continue to intrigue and inspire readers today. By learning about Greek mythology, we are able to gain insight into the values and beliefs of one of the most influential ancient civilizations in history.

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Most elementary and junior high school children find that mythology is one of their favorite units in school. It can be fascinating to learn about Zeus and Jupiter and their expansive families. Of course mythology isn't limited to the Greeks and Romans. Mythology can refer to folklore in any country.

Myths are usually stories that are about a god or supernatural human. Myths commonly take place in ancient times or before humans were on the planet. They're used to explain why the world is the way it is. They also have a deeply rooted spiritual or religious connection.

Teaching Mythology to Your Young Students

Whether you're discussing Jupiter, Mars, and Apollo or Zeus, Athena, and Hades, Teacher Planet has the mythology classroom resources you need. For example, you can find lesson plans on Mt Olympus for younger students and the Role of Myths in society for older students. You also have access to worksheets, hands on activities, clip art and an abundance of additional teaching resources. Students always look forward to the mythology unit, let Teacher Planet make this year the best mythology unit yet.

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Mrs. Nelson Teaches

Engaging ela education, my top 3 greek mythology units.

Greek Mythology is hands-down one of the most popular units that I have ever taught to my middle school students–second only to my Fun Poetry Unit. With the rise of Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series and other modern allusions to Greek Mythology, students’ interest in the ancient stories is higher than ever. I love to capitalize on that interest and teach students important literacy skills while enjoying the engaging stories of well-known Greek mythical figures.

When I teach Greek Mythology, I divide our study up into three subunits. I begin building students’ base knowledge about twelve major Greek gods and goddesses . Following that, we spend some time reading and analyzing the themes of several famous Greek myths . And finally, we study The Hero’s Journey and eight of the most well-known Greek Heroes. The entire unit takes about a month and students LOVE it! At the end of each lesson, they are literally BEGGING for more Greek Mythology!

Let’s take a closer look at each of the subunits!

1. Greek Gods and Goddess Unit

First, my students and I take a look at ancient Greek Deity. Greek Mythology is full of interesting characters, but perhaps none so intriguing as the gods and goddesses of ancient Greece! This  FUN no-prep middle school  unit examines each goddess and god individually. Students will be able to recognize each deity’s Greek and Roman name, his or her title or realm, the symbols associated with him or her and become familiar with the major myths involving each god or goddess. The twelve gods I include in this unit are Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Demeter, Hades, Athena, Aphrodite, Apollo, Ares, Hermes, Hephaestus and Artemis.

For each deity, I use a note card for students to keep track of the vital information of each god–by vital, I mean the information mentioned previously and that will also be on the test! On the flip side of the note card, I’ve included an artist’s depiction of the god or goddess. If we have time, I’ll ask students to color the whole thing; but at a minimum, I ask that students at least color any visible symbols of the goddess or god. This helps them recognize the goddess or god in art, pictures, etc.

We end this part of the unit with a test (review included) and a fun creative activity that my students have always really enjoyed!

2. Introduction to Greek Mythology

Secondly, in the unit , I like to pause and reflect with students about why it’s a good idea to study Greek Mythology. I have devoted an entire additional blog post about my top four reasons we should study Greek Mythology, so I won’t go into that here. However, I do review these reasons with students as part of the unit. We read seven Greek Myths and analyze the theme of each myth. I really enjoy pausing with students and considering what might be a life lesson that can be learned from each myth. Typically, there are many in each myth. Often, my students decipher themes that haven’t even occurred to me! I love this part of the unit where students can think critically!

The myths that we read include:

• The Tragedy of Echo and Narcissus
• The Tragedy of Phaethon
• Prometheus and the Theft of Fire
• The Story of Pandora
• The Judgment of Paris
• Oedipus and the Oracle at Delphi
• The Minotaur, Daedalus and Icarus

Each of these stories is so fun to read with students! Some they may have heard of before and others they may not be familiar with. Either way, they are exciting myths to study and analyze together. This unit also includes some creative projects at the end that are a fun way to wrap up this section of our Greek Mythology study .

3. The Hero’s Journey – Greek Mythology

Finally, the last portion of my Greek Mythology unit is centered around Joseph Campbell’s monomyth or “ The Hero’s Journey .” We begin the unit by introducing the journey and then proceed to read about eight famous Greek Heroes: Perseus, Atalanta, Bellerophon, Achilles, Theseus, Heracles, Jason and Odysseus. For each hero story, students can mark how the hero went through The Hero’s Journey and then complete an additional fun and creative activity.

This unit concludes with a formal writing assignment that takes students through the entire writing process discussing their personal hero. We work on prewriting/brainstorming, drafting, revising, editing and publishing. It’s maybe less fun, per se, for students, but it is meaningful for each them to think about someone they admire and why.

Fun and Engagement are Contagious!

As with most lessons we teach in our classrooms, if we are having fun, our students are more likely to have fun. Smiles and enthusiasm are contagious; so are pessimism and dread! So find something to be happy about and have fun studying Greek Mythology with your students!

One thing that may put a smile on your face is that if you bundle these three resources, you’ll get 20% off!

Brenna (Mrs. Nelson)

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Online Class: Greek Mythology

• 19 Exams & Assignments
• 4,209 Students have taken this course
• 7 Hours average time

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:

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.

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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

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!

Course Motivation

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
• Printable Lessons

• 6 Months to Complete
• 24/7 Availability
• Start Anytime
• PC & Mac Compatible
• Android & iOS Friendly
• Accredited CEUs

Course Lessons

Lesson 1: Introduction to Greek Mythology

Lesson 2: In The Beginning

Lesson 3: the gods and early heroes in mythology, lesson 4: the great heroes during the trojan war, lesson 5: stories of love in mythology, lesson 6: famous greek mythology families and their cities, lesson 7: more myths from greek mythology, learning outcomes.

• Define Greek Mythology.
• Describe the gods and early heroes in mythology.
• Describe the great heroes during the trojan war.
• Summarize stories of love in mythology.
• Describe famous greek mythology families and their cities.
• Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.

Additional Course Information

• Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
• Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
• Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
• View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
• Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media

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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.

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100 Greek and Roman Mythology Writing Prompts

December 28, 2023 by Richard 3 Comments

Journey Back in Time with 100 Greek and Roman Mythology Writing Prompts: the fantastical tales of Greek and Roman mythology have captivated audiences for millennia. These classic stories overflow with larger-than-life characters, epic adventures, enthralling quests, supernatural feats, majestic gods and goddesses, magnificent beasts, and life lessons that still resonate today.

Whether you’re a student exploring ancient myths for the first time or a seasoned writer revisiting old favorites, using these myths as creative writing prompts allows you to delve deeper while crafting your own unique additions to the mythic canon.

To spark your imagination, I’ve put together an expansive list of 100 writing prompts derived straight from the greatest hits of Greek and Roman mythology. You’ll find ideas ranging from retelling iconic mythic stories from alternative perspectives to crafting completely original narratives featuring favorite gods, heroes, titans and all manner of magical beings.

Some prompts encourage exploring overlooked details or backstories for supporting mythic characters to give them a chance to shine as protagonists. Other prompts merge myths with modern settings to reinvigorate the possibilities. A few avoid the serious drama for some light-hearted divine hijinks on Mount Olympus!

Review the list to pinpoint whatever unique myths speak to you, then start writing to breathe new life into these timeless tales! Allow the original myths to guide key aspects of setting, conflict and resolutions, but make ample room to reinterpret characters and events by infusing your own perspectives, styles and messages.

Whether you adhere faithfully to canon or chart your own creative course, use these mythic writing prompts as time machines to transport you back to an imaginative ancient world filled with unrestrained wonder and adventure. What new chapters will you contribute to mythology’s legendary library?

Here are 100 Greek and Roman Mythology Writing Prompts: 

• Tell the story of how Zeus came to power and defeated the Titans.
• Write a day in the life of a Greek god or goddess on Mount Olympus.
• Narrate the 12 labors of Hercules from his perspective. How did he feel having to complete these seemingly impossible tasks?
• Retell the story of the Trojan War from the point of view of Helen of Troy. Why did she leave with Paris for Troy? Did she regret it?
• Describe what a day in the life could have been like in the ancient city of Athens during its golden age.
• Tell the story of Odysseus and the challenges he faced trying to get home after the Trojan War from his sailor’s perspective.
• Rewrite a classic myth or legend from the antagonist or monster’s point of view. How were their motivations misunderstood?
• Explore the story of Icarus and Daedalus from Icarus’ perspective. What was going through his mind before and after he flew too close to the sun?
• Retell the myth of Persephone’s abduction from her perspective. What did she experience down in the underworld?
• Write a play imagining a humorous conversation between several Greek gods or goddesses during a get together celebration. What current events would they gossip about?
• Craft a story about an average woman living in Sparta and the difficulties she encountered in their demanding, military-focused society.
• Imagine you are Pygmalion. Narrate the story of falling love with your ivory sculpture when Aphrodite brings it to life.
• Rewrite the tragedy of Orpheus and Eurydice from Eurydice’s point of view. What was her experience in the underworld after dying?
• Tell the story of the Minotaur from his perspective, locked away in the labyrinth by King Minos. What were his days like? His thoughts?
• Write a journal entry from Medusa’s perspective when she first realizes she has snakes for hair and a gaze that turns people to stone. How does she feel? What are her plans?
• Craft a story focused on a priest or priestess serving at one of Athena or Aphrodite’s ancient Greek temples. What might a typical day attending to temple affairs have looked like?
• Imagine you are Hera. Tell the story of learning about another one of Zeus’ illicit affairs. How angry are you? What do you plan to do?
• Write about two demigods who attend Camp Half Blood from Rick Riordan’s “Percy Jackson” universe. What adventure do they go on?
• Retell the story of the Odyssey in modern times from Penelope’s perspective, waiting for Odysseus to return from war overseas.
• Narrate the myth of Arachne and Athena and the lead up to Arachne getting turned into a spider. Is Arachne truly at fault? Did Athena overreact?
• Write a short story imagining a conversation between Hades and Persephone where they reconcile their differences after the pomegranate seed incident.
• Tell the story of Dionysus’ ascent into a powerful, worshiped god and the challenges he had to overcome. Why was he initially mocked and seen as weak?
• Craft a story focused on the elderly blind prophet Tiresias and what daily life was like for him. Did people believe his prophecies?
• Narrate the story of Demeter’s search for Persephone after Hades abducts her into the underworld from Demeter’s distraught perspective.
• Imagine you are Sisyphus eternally pushing a boulder up a hill. Describe what thoughts go through your head to avoid going mad from boredom and frustration.
• Retell the events of the Trojan War leading up to the famed Trojan Horse invasion from the perspective of a Trojan soldier. Did you suspect the Horse? Why or why not?
• Write a journal entry from the perspective of Aphrodite after she causes Medea to fall for Jason. Did she foresee the nasty consequences? Does she have any regrets over what transpired?
• Craft a story focused on a demigod child of Demeter realizing he or she has the powers to grow plants. What is their reaction? How do they explore their newfound abilities?
• Tell the story of the battle between the Olympian Gods and Titans from a Titan’s point of view. Did they ever have a chance to win? How devastating was their defeat?
• Write about a fictional missed romantic connection between Hades and Demeter. Perhaps they find brief happiness together during one of Persephone’s periods above ground.
• Narrate the myth of Daedelus and Icarus from the perspective of a fisherman who spots a strange boy flying towards the sun in the distance.
• Imagine you are Zeus’s wife Hera. Write about your conflicted emotions and relationship with him over the years.
• Craft a story focused on strangers exploring an ancient, monster-filled labyrinth supposedly built by Daedalus for King Minos. Do they make it out alive with treasure?
• Tell the tale of Perseus and Medusa from Medusa’s sister Stheno’s perspective. How does she feel about the fate of her sister?
• Write a short story about a demigod child of Ares who is a pacifist struggling with family expectations he or she doesn’t agree with.
• Retell the story of Narcissus staring at himself eternally in the waters of a pool from Narcissus’s best friend who desperately misses who he used to be.
• Imagine you are Bellerophon, the legendary Greek hero who tamed the winged horse Pegasus. Where did you go exploring mounted on Pegasus? What did you see and experience up high in the clouds?
• Craft a story focused on one of Hades’ guards in the underworld, perhaps a three-headed dog like Cerberus. What is a typical “day” of guarding the underworld like? Does anything interesting ever happen while guarding souls?
• Tell the tragic story of unrequited love between the god Apollo and the nymph Daphne from Apollo’s mournful perspective after she is turned into a laurel tree.
• Choose two Greek or Roman gods and write a humorous slice of life type story focused on them sharing an apartment together for some reason – perhaps as college students experiencing earthly life.
• Narrate an ancient feud between two demigod children of rival gods who perpetually quarrel – like Athena and Poseidon. Do they ever reconcile their differences?
• Craft a story focused on an inexperienced young man named Pyramus who has just started his job working at the temple of Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty. What humorous mishaps occur while he tries to prove himself as a priest?
• Tell a story focused on the winged horse Pegasus befriending the Muses on Mount Olympus. He gives them rides and keeps them company during creative breaks from practicing their art forms.
• Write a melancholic short story on the nymph Echo who loses her voice and can only repeat words when she angers Hera with her chatter and gossip. Does she ever find meaningful communication again?
• Choose your favorite Greek or Roman god not often written about. Develop a story focused on them that explores their unique traits, powers, responsibilities, and perspective.
• Revisit part of Homer’s Odyssey by developing the story of the cunning Odysseus’ journey to the underworld where he communicates with spirits of the dead to gain insight.
• Craft an alternative mythic Greek tragedy telling the story of Orpheus trying and failing to rescue his true love Eurydice from the depths of Tartarus. This time, why does he fail?
• Imagine you are Cerberus, the legendary three-headed guard dog of Hades. What is a day in your life like? Do you ever leave your post or explore the Surface Lands you gaze up at from the underworld?
• Tell a story focused on the half-bird, half-woman harpies from Greek myth. Where did they originate from? Why were they cursing and tormenting King Phineus before the winged sons of Boreas interceded?
• Develop a coming-of-age story focused on the early life of Achilles and his fate as a demigod warrior doomed to die young if he ever fights in Troy. Is he aware of his fate? Does he willingly accept it or try to avoid it somehow?
• Craft a story about Poseidon and Athena’s intense rivalry from back when they competed to become patron deity of Athens. Why couldn’t they compromise?
• Choose a Greek or Roman god you find interesting and imagine them walking unseen through a modern city observing humanity as they reflect on their reduced significance and belief among mortals.
• Tell a story set in Hades focused on notoriously evil souls like Tantalus, Prometheus, Sisyphus, etc. Do they ever accept or reflect on their punishments for angering the gods? Ever plan an escape?
• Develop a story about a discouraged man or woman meeting the winged messenger god Hermes disguised as an average human. He provides profound advice, aid, or encouragement through eloquent dialogue that changes their life.
• Craft a story about twin demigods, one boy and one girl, discovering they have complimentary super speed and strength powers from their godly parent Mercury/Hermes when under stress or pressure. Do they train to fight monsters and explore their newfound abilities?
• Imagine you witness Atalanta outpace Melanion in a mythical footrace. Describe how a simple golden apple provided by Aphrodite helps determine the contest’s winner and Atalanta’s fate.
• Develop a story focused on an aging Zeus considering which of his many sons throughout Greece will replace him as head of Mount Olympus and king of gods. Who does he choose and why?
• Craft an alternative story where Icarus’s melted wax wings enable him to glide safely into the ocean after flying too close to the sun. He then explores a tropical, possibly monster-filled island lush with fruit trees, ruins, and secrets.
• Retell the events leading up to Pandora opening her box that unleashed evil onto the mortal world. This time imagine Pandora herself narrating why she chose to open the forbidden box out of innocent curiosity against instructions.
• Develop a story focused on young goddess Athena yearning for freedom and stretching her wings outside the shadow of her domineering father Zeus as she attempts to understand humanity and build her own legacy.
• Craft a short story about a female sculptor who magically brings her breathtaking, beloved sculpture of the goddess Aphrodite to life. Does the sculptor form an actual relationship with her artwork turned woman?
• Tell a tale exploring how Prometheus may have felt chained and tortured on a desolate mountain peak day-after-day for helping humanity against Zeus’ orders by delivering them divine gifts like fire. Does he ever regret his compassion towards mortals?
• Choose any fantastical creature from Greek myths like griffins, chimeras, unicorns, etc. Develop a story focused on the perspective of this creature interacting with humans or being pursued for its valuable parts like potent blood or golden fur.
• Craft an alternative story where cunning Odysseus ignores the Sirens’ alluring songs by not having his crew plug their ears with wax. Instead they navigate a safe path after capturing a talkative mermaid who reveals the Siren’s weakness.
• Develop a story focused on an ordinary mortal man or woman who encounters Aphrodite and Eros during a festival. They are accidentally struck by one of cupid’s stray arrows and fall madly in love with the next person they lay eyes on – for better or worse!
• Tell a story featuring the philosopher Socrates in Athens defending his radical ideas against accusations of impiety by suggestion from a mysterious elderly stranger in the crowd.
• Craft a story featuring the winged horse Pegasus befriending Andromeda after rescuing her from her chains at the last second as she is about to be devoured by Cetus sent by Poseidon.
• Develop a tale focused on Greek hero Perseus encountering winged sandals gifted from Hermes and a shining bronze shield from Athena that depicts petrifying Medusa and her sisters Stheno and Euryale.
• Explore the concept of “Hubris” or excessive pride leading to one’s downfall through a story focused on legendary Greek heroes like Achilles, Odysseus, Oedipus or others known for arrogant behavior at times.
• Craft an alternative myth telling how crippled blacksmith god Hephaestus forges impressive new thrones for goddesses Hera and Aphrodite in hopes one of them will consent to become his wife after embarrassing rejection on Mount Olympus.
• Develop a story based on various Greek monsters like bronze giant Talos guarding Crete or the ferocious nine-headed Lernaean Hydra battling Hercules set in the modern world. How do humans react? Can the creatures be defeated?
• Explore Plato’s Allegory of the Cave through a narrative featuring imprisoned men who believe shadows projected on the wall are reality while philosophies encourage the enlightened escapee.
• Craft a story featuring Greek titans like Oceanus, Coeus, Hyperion, or Iapetus assisting the Olympians during battle with Kronos or Typhon after tiring of their harsh brother’s merciless leadership. Do they aid in his defeat?
• Develop a tale based on common Greek myths like Jason’s quest for the Golden Fleece aboard the Argo, Theseus escaping the labyrinth after battling the Minotaur, or the 12 Gods warring with their Titan parents. Pick one!
• Narrate the tragic fate of unrequited lovers Hero and Leander after
• Craft a story focused on Zeus and Hera with relationship issues. Hera is upset after overhearing boastful Zeus promise to make a mortal woman the next young goddess of spring in place of Persephone to appease Demeter.
• Develop a tale based on rumors that Helen of Troy may have actually spent 10 years of the Trojan War in Egypt. Explore what events could have transpired there while Greek and Trojan blood was shed in her name.
• Tell a story based on the lighter side of Mount Olympus with gods pulling harmless pranks on one another or engaging in embarrassing situations revealing that even mighty deities are flawed. Comedy and laughter follow!
• Craft an alternative myth telling how brave Icarus survives his fall only to discover strange deserted islands below with remnants of an advanced but forgotten bronze-age civilization later plagued by volcanic eruption.
• Develop a story focused on Greek heroes like cunning Odysseus or mighty Hercules. They could fight monsters like Cerberus, sail through lethal whirlpools like Charybdis, or outwit tantalizing Sirens during their adventures.
• Explore a fictional scenario where demigods train to sharpen their supernatural skills at a secret enchanted camp located deep within a mist-covered forest or high atop legendary Mount Olympus itself, home of the gods.
• Craft a tale describing the winged horse Pegasus befriending Andromeda after rescuing her from her chains at the last second as she is about to be devoured by Cetus during her sacrifice.
• Develop a story based on Pandora’s box finally being re-opened after thousands of years by a modern-day archaeologist who has no idea what evil now escapes back into the world.
• Explore a lighter fictional scenario on Mount Olympus where Aphrodite seeks relationship advice from the other goddesses before a hot date with Ares while meddling Eros and feuding gods cause mischief.
• Craft a story about Zeus punishing Prometheus by chaining him to a mountain where an eagle eternally eats his liver only for it to regenerate and repeat the torment. Did Prometheus deserve this for gifting fire to mankind?
• Develop a tale about the rise and fall of legendary Icarus who flew too high and melted his man-made wings. Was it reckless ambition? Youthful folly? Divine retribution? Expound on the meaning of his mythic fate.
• Explore the tale of mighty Hercules from start to finish. From his wrathful step-mother Hera all the way through completing his storied 12 Labors after which he eventually dies only to become a god.
• Craft a story set in modern times telling how demigods would try to discreetly use their special powers like controlling waves or conjuring storms without revealing their godly parent to nearby mortals.
• Develop a light-hearted fictional scenario where the Muses growing bored on Mount Olympus secretly form an Olympian battle band to the shock of the older gods who don’t appreciate their sudden loud experimental music echoes.
• Expound on legendary creatures like the ferocious Nemean Lion with impenetrable fur that Hercules fought or Pegasus the winged stallion. Imagine a habitat for it. What does it eat? How does it behave? Interact with humans?
• Craft a myth telling how Helios rides his fiery sun chariot across the sky until it falls into the ocean each night only to repeat the cycle at dawn. What could make the sun disappear? How would mankind cope with eternal darkness?
• Develop a scenario where demigods train to sharpen their supernatural skills at a secret enchanted camp located deep within a mist-covered forest or high atop legendary Mount Olympus itself, home of the gods. What skills would they practice? Where would they quest?
• Imagine you are Odysseus nearing the end of his long perilous journey back home to Ithaca and family after years abroad at the Trojan War and facing numerous monsters of the sea. Describe finally escaping after blinding Polyphemus the cyclops then washing ashore exhausted to your homeland so close.
• Develop a comedic slice of life story set in the underworld realm of Hades focusing on bizarre cursed shades like Tantalus chasing fruit or Sisyphus forever pushing his stone in frustration as they complain
• Tell the story of Atalanta’s race against her suitors. Focus on her internal struggle as she faces losing her independence if a man beats her. Does she let someone win? Or fail to outrun them by her own mistake?
• Craft a story about someone finding Pandora’s box and opening it in the modern world. What evils escape and how does humanity cope? Is there remaining hope inside as well?
• Develop a comedic story about the difficulties of Aphrodite and Ares maintaining a secretive romantic affair from the other skeptical Olympian gods who disapprove. Do they get caught red-handed?
• Write about an average girl who suddenly finds out she is a demigod, perhaps a daughter of Demeter. Tell her story as she travels to Camp Half-Blood, trains to use newfound powers, and goes on her first quest with new friends.
• Craft a story focused on the winged horse Pegasus. He befriends lonely Medusa who was cursed and exiled. Their special bond and adventures explore important themes about friendship, judgment, and finding the good in people despite outward appearances.
• Develop a scenario where Icarus’ wax wings don’t melt when close to the sun, but actually enable him to soar higher than ever imagined. He enters celestial realms barred from mortals before. What fantastic sights does he witness? How does this experience profoundly change him moving forward when he finally returns to Earth?

After reviewing the extensive list of myth-based writing prompts I’ve provided, hopefully your mind is already swirling with ideas and possibilities. Every prompt is meant to ignite your innate creativity – that inner muse longing to channel its expression through the written word.

Although initially daunting, reworking ancient myths may feel less intimidating once you embrace the creative freedom you have to take the narratives in completely new directions. The key is staying true to the core essence of whatever characters or mythic arcs speak to you most. The rest can be freely reinterpreted through your own unique lens.

What hidden backstories will you illuminate? Which unsung heroes will finally get their chance at glory? What new worlds will unfold and which lessons will you impart through subtle (or not so subtle) allegories? The narrative canvas stretches wide open.

While I aimed to inspire rather than overwhelm with so many prompt options, please don’t feel any pressure to adhere too strictly to myths if they don’t resonate. This is your odyssey to embark upon. Let your inner muse channel that innate storyteller within while using prompts merely as creative catalysts rather than rigid guidelines.

Most importantly, enjoy the journey and savor the richness mythology provides in shaping emotive, meaningful tales that linger across generations. Our modern stories descend directly from these primordial narrative wells tapping into timeless aspects of human experience. Now it’s your turn to draw sustenance from these depths through whatever unique works your own muse inspires!

If you enjoyed these prompts, please leave us a comment. We also have many other writing prompts on our sit.

Related posts:

• 1000 Writing Prompts
• Writing Prompt 5: Some in in the House (we will publish your story)
• Writing Prompt: Werewolf on a Cruise Ship
• Daily Writing Prompts for November
• 50 historical fiction writing prompts

About Richard

Richard Everywriter (pen name) has worked for literary magazines and literary websites for the last 25 years. He holds degrees in Writing, Journalism, Technology and Education. Richard has headed many writing workshops and courses, and he has taught writing and literature for the last 20 years.  

In writing and publishing he has worked with independent, small, medium and large publishers for years connecting publishers to authors. He has also worked as a journalist and editor in both magazine, newspaper and trade publications as well as in the medical publishing industry.   Follow him on Twitter, and check out our Submissions page .

Reader Interactions

Hameed Mansoor says

December 29, 2023 at 5:20 am

thanks for this precious rich subject, I wish I found it earlier, I have just finished my master degree in mass communication and public relations, my thesis named “The semiotics of underworld mythology in cinematic drama, Odysseus as a model” I met plenty of the suggested topic ought to be developed e.g. 6,19,46,93,80,

So glad to read this topic which will definitely help me in my future research.

Canon Lejeune says

March 29, 2024 at 8:22 am

I really like these prompts. But do you mind if I use them for a writing project?

Richard says

March 31, 2024 at 6:33 am

They were created to be used.

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