Option B: Original Mythic Tale By now, you should have a good understanding of the major motifs and archetypes found in mythology. Now it’s time to have some fun with one of them and try your hand at mythmaking. First, however, you must demonstrate that you understand the concept of either creation myths, classical heroes, or tricksters; then apply the selected motif by writing an original tale. Please use MLA 8th edition for formatting and citing. Specifications: Incorporate at least three myths, epics, or legends from the textbook, each from a different unit of study. 3-4 double-spaced pages of content Works cited page at the end. Use 8th edition MLA format, and list each reading selection separately in alphabetical order on the works cited. MLA heading on first page and in-text citations for all direct quotations Use proper sentence and essay structure. Additional outside research is optional. Content: Select one of the topic options from the next page and develop your paper using the following pattern: I. Part 1: Introduction In the paper’s first few paragraphs (1-1½ pages), identify the motif you are exploring; recount its characteristics and offer examples from myths covered in class. Include myths, epics, or legends from at least three different units of study. Cite the myths within this section of the paper as well as listing them separately on the works cited page. Do not introduce your original tale until the end of Part 1. II. Part 2: Original Tale Use one of the archetypal motifs on the next page for your original story (2-3 pages). Give this section its own title, and tell an original tale with characters from our own imagination. Be sure to start a new paragraph for each scene or when changing speakers in a dialogue. III. Part 3: Conclusion Finally, following your story, the essay’s conclusion (1-2 paragraphs) should explain how your tale fits the motif. Which elements does your tale include? How is it similar to cultural myths of this type, particularly those mentioned in your paper’s introduction? Page 4 of 7 Original Mythic Tale Topic Options: Creation Write a creation myth to explain the origins of the human race (or a particular people), the universe, or some sort of natural phenomenon, such as the seasons, weather, geography, or celestial bodies. The “myth” itself must be completely original, but you should rely on one or more of the traditional creation motifs: deus faber, divine emission, divine words, earth diver, etc. Hero’s Journey Write about a hero who embodies the ideal qualities of his or her culture, and narrate his or her journey. The characters in this “myth” must be original and should include several characters of a classical hero and the hero’s journey: association with god(s) and/or royalty, unusual conception or birth, great strength, call to adventure, divine aid and/or help from a mentor, use of a special weapon, descent into underworld/death, return to everyday world, etc. Trickster Tale Write a trickster tale that focuses on a character who transgresses his or her societal mores. The trickster may be a culture-bringer or destructive influence—or a bit of both. Again, the characters and events should be of your own creation, but you should include several of the personality traits common to tricksters (clever, opportunistic, quickwitted, lazy, lusty, hunger-driven, greedy, etc.), and the character must clearly violate the norms of his or her culture.