Comparative Literature 108: Myths and Mythologies

This online course explores myths and mythic traditions from non-Western cultures, such as Native American, ancient Near Eastern, Hindu and African cultures.  In comparing this variety of myths, we will see how beliefs from around the world differ, yet share important metaphors and express universal human concerns.

What will I learn in this course?

At the conclusion of this course, you should be able to: 

  1. Appreciate the richness and variety of non-Western mythic traditions;
  2. Have an enhanced understanding of cultures and value-systems with with which you may not have been familiar;      
  3. Read and analyze myths from cultural, historical and literary perspectives;               
  4. Understand and apply the major critical approaches to myths;
  5. Think and write critically about myths and mythological traditions;
  6. Identify and articulate the similar and unique characteristics of various mythic traditions;
  7. Demonstrate skills in close reading and written expression of critical analysis, which will be useful in other areas of academic endeavor;
  8. See myth all around you;     
  9. Begin to understand human thought processes as expressed in myth.

This course meets the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements. This course also meets the General Education Humanities (GH) requirements, the International Cultures (IL) requirements, and the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements. See your advisor if you have questions about how this course can be used in your program of study.

Are there any prerequisites for this course?

There are no specific classes that you must take before taking Comparative Literature 108. This course is completely online. To take this course, you should feel comfortable navigating on the Internet. You must also be a motivated, organized student who feels confident about reading to learn and who is comfortable working independently.

I've never taken an online course before. What is it like?

This course is taught completely online. We'll use Penn State's course management system, ANGEL, for CMLIT 108, and you will be able to communicate with the professor and your classmates through chat, e-mail, and threaded discussions within ANGEL.

You do not need to come to campus at any time, and you do not need a proctor or remote testing site.

An online course, however, is not easier than on-campus course. In fact, it takes a lot more self-discipline. You must be willing and able to commit the same amount of time as you would for attending class and studying for a traditional course. You must also be a motivated, organized student who feels confident about reading to learn and who is comfortable working independently. If you're wondering whether an online course is right for you, take this short survey to find out more about how online learning is different.

What are the technological requirements for this course?
  1. Have access to a computer that meets the ANGEL technological requirements.
  2. Be comfortable with navigating the Internet
How is the course structured?

CMLIT 108 consists of 13 topic areas that offer an analysis of myths from Native American, ancient Near Eastern, Hindu and African traditions. The course will include three exams, five essays, four discussion forum postings and a comprehensive final exam.

Where can I get more information?

For more information about CMLIT 108 Online, see a recent course syllabus. To register, visit the Office of the University Registrar. At the beginning of each semester, all enrolled students should access CMLIT 108 at the site of Penn State's course management system, ANGEL.

 

Ganesha

Ganesha

Ganesha is the elephant-headed son of Shiva and Parvati.  He is the symbol of good fortune in the Hindu tradition.  Did you know that Hinduism, like Christianity and Islam,  is a monotheistic faith? 

Coyote

image of coyote

The Native American coyote is a clever, funny, and over-sexed "trickster" of the American Southwest.  He is also the inspiration for the "Road Runner" cartoons.

Raven

image of raven

Raven is the tricky culture hero of the American Northwest. The product of an immaculate conception, he steals sunlight.

Utnapishtim

image of utnapishtim

The 4000-year-old story of Utnapishtim, from the area that is now Iraq, was the source of the Biblical story of Noah.  What advice does he give to ancient epic heroes and to us?