Differences and Similarities Between Myths & Legends

Myths

The word ‘myth’ comes from the Greek word ‘mythos’, which means story, fable or word.
Myths usually contain imaginary characters, gods and supernatural beings, and deal with
themes such as creation, death, afterlife and the universe. Myths offer explanations to
important and complex questions.

Legends

The word ‘legend’ comes from the Latin ‘legere’ – to read. A legend differs from a myth
in that the stories feature real people, locations and events. However, the stories have
become exaggerated or had sections added to them, so it is difficult to tell which parts of
the story are fact and which are fiction.

Stories from different cultures often deal with similar themes (loss, betrayal, redemption,
love), and their characters experience similar trials and tribulations, often sequenced as a
journey – both physical and emotional.

Some myths still form part of living religions such as Shinto and Hinduism. Others are
part of ancient and superseded cultures, like those of Ancient Egypt, Greek and Rome.

Most past cultures and civilisations have some form of mythology, usually passed down
from one generation to the next by storytellers. The world is full of rich artefacts that
depict myths and legends. Pottery, paintings, sculpture, books, shields, tombs and
buildings are just some examples of where we can see interpretations of the stories, their
characters and events.