Middle School Torch | Page 9

The mythology of ancient Greece and Rome (and other civilizations) was how most of humanity explained everyday occurrences. For example, the sun was believed to be Helios (or Apollo), the Greek god of the sun driving his chariot across the sky. Of course, nowadays, we know that the sun is a flaming ball of fire. But no matter how far-fetched and outlandish these myths might seem, they are still relevant today.  

The NBC logo of a peacock represents the very same peacock from the story of Hera, Argus and Io. Argus had 100 eyes and when he died, Hera placed the eyes on each of the feathers of a peacock to honor him. NBC might have chosen this because of the “hundreds of eyes” that watch their channels, or because they claim that their shows view from every perspective.  

Another example of myths still influencing our modern-day world is Trident Gum. A trident, which was a three-pronged spear, was the Greek god, Poseidon’s chosen weapon. Poseidon is the god of the sea, and Trident claims that their gum is just as refreshing as water. Also, Nike, the sports brand, is named after the Greek goddess of victory. This therefore insinuates that their products will take humankind to victory. Even such common things such as cereal (named after the Roman goddess of grain, Ceres), have the potential to find their roots in an ancient culture or mythology.  

Names also can take their roots in mythology. Some of the names of today that trace back to ancient myths are Jason, Troy, Damon, Helen, Penelope, Phoebe, and more.

All in all, Ancient Greek and Roman mythology is still relevant and influencing our world today.  

Ancient Greek and Roman mythology is still relevant and influencing our world today.

Art by Irene Calderon