Watch Great Mythologies of the World

Great Mythologies of the World from The Great Courses is a fascinating and in-depth exploration of some of the world's most captivating myths and legends. Hosted by Grant L. Voth, this series takes viewers on a journey through the rich and diverse cultures that have given rise to some of the most enduring stories in human history.

Over the course of 24 lectures, Voth covers a range of myths and mythological figures from across the globe, including those from Ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, India, China, Japan, and the Americas. Each lecture delves into the specific beliefs and traditions of the culture in question, placing the myths within their broader historical, social, and philosophical contexts.

Throughout the series, Voth draws from a wealth of sources to bring these legends to life. He examines ancient texts, archaeological findings, artwork, and artifacts to help viewers visualize the stories and peoples he is discussing. He also highlights common themes and motifs that can be found across different cultures and time periods, helping viewers to better understand how myths have evolved and interconnected over the centuries.

One of the strengths of Great Mythologies of the World is Voth's engaging style of presentation. He is clearly passionate about his subject matter, and his enthusiasm is infectious. He has a knack for explaining complex ideas in a straightforward and accessible way, making even the most intricate mythological systems feel relatable and relevant to modern audiences.

Another strength of this series is its focus on the cultures themselves, rather than just the myths in isolation. Voth spends considerable time discussing the historical, social, and philosophical contexts that gave rise to these legends. For example, he explores how Ancient Egyptian myths were connected to the country's geography, climate, and religious practices, and how they helped to articulate ideas about the afterlife and the divine realm. By doing this, Voth gives viewers a more comprehensive understanding of the cultures he is exploring, which in turn helps to give the myths themselves more depth and resonance.

In addition to its focus on specific cultures, Great Mythologies of the World also looks at some of the major themes and archetypes that recur throughout different mythological systems. For example, Voth examines the role of the hero figure in various traditions, and how heroes are often called upon to navigate complex moral dilemmas in order to achieve their goals. He also looks at the idea of creation, and how different cultures have imagined the origins of the universe and humanity. By doing so, Voth highlights the fundamental concerns and questions that myths across the world have sought to address.

Overall, Great Mythologies of the World is an illuminating and engaging exploration of the myriad stories that have captivated human imagination for thousands of years. Whether you are a dedicated mythology buff or simply curious about the world's various cultures and traditions, this series is sure to offer something to enrich your understanding of our shared human experience.

Great Mythologies of the World is a series that ran for 1 seasons (60 episodes) between August 21, 2015 and on The Great Courses