Ancient myths that still resonate today

admin 2023年4月28日

Intermediate

world news, world news - intermediate

Pre-reading questions:

I will read each question. Then, please answer them.

Do you like reading mythology? Why or why not?
Why do you think the myths and tales are still relevant today?

Vocabulary:

I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.

source /sawrs/

[noun] – the place something comes from or starts at, or the cause of something
When writing a research paper, it is important to cite all of the sources you used to gather information, such as books, articles, and websites.

mythology /mi-THOL-uh-jee/

[noun] – an ancient story or set of stories, especially explaining the early history of a group of people or about natural events and facts
In our literature class, we studied Greek mythology and learned about the adventures of the mighty gods and goddesses.

tale /teyl /

[noun] – a story, especially one that might be invented or difficult to believe
The tale of Cinderella is a classic story about a kind-hearted girl who overcomes adversity and finds true love with the help of her fairy godmother.

inspire /in-SPAHYUHR/

[verb] – to make someone feel that they want to do something and can do it
My grandmother’s courage and resilience in the face of adversity inspired me to never give up on my dreams, no matter how difficult they may seem.

loyalty /LOI-uhl-tee/

[noun] – the quality of being loyal
The dog’s loyalty to his owner was unwavering, as he never left his side and always protected him from danger.

Article reading:

Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.

The allure of Nordic culture has long been a source of fascination for many. With its rich mythology and timeless tales, it continues to captivate and inspire generations. These ancient Norse myths offer a glimpse into the complexities of human nature and the world around us, making them an invaluable resource for those seeking wisdom and insight.

Among the most renowned myths is that of Odin, the Allfather, who traded his eye for knowledge. This story highlights the importance of sacrifice and the lengths we must go to attain true wisdom. Meanwhile, the tale of Thor, the God of Thunder, showcases the power of courage and loyalty, even in the face of insurmountable odds. Finally, the legend of Ragnarok, the end of the world, teaches us about the cyclical nature of life and death and the necessity of hope, even in the darkest of times.

In essence, the Norse myths are a testament to the human experience, offering valuable insights into our nature and the world we inhabit. By delving into these tales, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. So, the next time you hear a story about Odin, Thor, or any of the other Nordic gods and goddesses, take a moment to appreciate the timeless wisdom they offer.

Comprehension questions

I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.

What makes Nordic culture so fascinating to many people?
What is the myth of Odin about, and what does it teach us?
What qualities does the tale of Thor showcase, and what can we learn from it?
What is the legend of Ragnarok, and what does it teach us about the nature of life and death?
What should we do the next time we hear a story about Odin, Thor, or any of the other Nordic gods and goddesses?

Discussion questions