Watch Greek Myths True Stories

Greek Mythology is an integral part of the Western culture, and its gods, heroes, and myths have been thriving and captivating audiences for centuries. CuriosityStream's production Greek Myths True Stories is a four-episode docuseries, released in 2010, which explores the origins, themes, and relevance of the most intriguing Greek myths.

The series is hosted by Vanessa Collingridge, a British historian and author whose engaging and informative narration guides the viewer through the complex and fascinating world of Greek mythology. Collingridge takes us on a journey through the Olympian gods' family tree, unraveling the myths and stories of these powerful and capricious beings.

The first episode, "The Gods," introduces us to the twelve major Olympian gods and their respective domains, such as Zeus, king of the gods and god of the sky, Poseidon, god of the sea, and Athena, goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare. Through interviews with scholars, artists, and experts, the episode shows us how each god's personality and characteristics reflect different aspects of human nature and emotions, from love and beauty to anger and jealousy. We learn how the Greeks used myths to explain natural phenomena, such as thunder and lightning, and how the gods' relationships with one another were often fraught with conflict and betrayal.

The second episode, "Myths and Heroes," examines the most famous Greek myths and their heroes, such as Heracles, Jason, and Perseus. We learn how these myths were created to explain cultural values and customs, and how the heroes embodied idealized virtues such as courage, strength, and honor. Collingridge discusses how myths often reflect the tensions between the individual and the community, and how their resolution could offer a lesson in morality and ethics.

In the third episode, "Monsters," we delve into the intriguing and terrifying creatures that haunt Greek myths, from the ferocious Chimera to the seductive Sirens. We learn how these monsters personified human fears and anxieties, such as death, loss, and transformation, and how they often symbolized the dark and destructive aspects of nature and humanity. Collingridge reveals how the Greek myths could help people deal with their own personal demons and how they could offer a way to confront and overcome their deepest fears.

The final episode, "The Afterlife," explores the Greeks' beliefs about the afterlife and how they influenced their culture and religion. We discover different concepts of the underworld, such as Hades and Tartarus, and how the Greeks believed in the immortality of the soul. Collingridge discusses how the Greeks used myths to cope with the mystery and uncertainty of death and how their rituals and practices were designed to honor and appease the dead.

Overall, Greek Myths True Stories is a captivating docuseries that combines stunning visuals, expert commentary, and engaging narration to delve into the intriguing and timeless world of Greek mythology. The series offers not only a deep insight into the origins and themes of the most famous myths but also a reflection on how they continue to inspire and captivate people around the world. Whether you are a mythology nerd or a curious viewer, Greek Myths True Stories is a must-watch series that will transport you to the fascinating world of the Olympian gods and heroes.

Greek Myths True Stories is a series that ran for 1 seasons (2 episodes) between and on CuriosityStream