Mythology in Storytelling
Rippaverse Assistant EiC gives writers tips for balancing the familiar and the unique
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Carrow Brown
Mythology has long inspired storytellers, particularly in urban fantasy, where ancient legends are reimagined to intertwine with the complexities of modern life. Whether it’s gods navigating skyscrapers or mythical creatures lurking in city alleyways, mythology enriches narratives with universal themes of heroism, morality, and the human condition. In the realm of urban fantasy, mythology is more than a backdrop; it becomes a living, breathing element that enhances the magical realism of modern worlds. But how does an author effectively weave classic mythologies into their work while creating something that feels fresh and respectful?
Let’s delve into how to navigate this fine line as we start writing, from understanding mythological sources to crafting original spins on timeless tales.
Research Is Your Foundation
Before you can adapt mythology, you need to know it inside and out, as a deep understanding ensures your adaptations remain both respectful and engaging, allowing you to build narratives that resonate authentically with their origins while captivating modern audiences. This involves:
- Studying Primary Sources: Read the original myths, legends, and religious texts from the culture you’re borrowing from. These might include the Iliad for Greek mythology, the Mahabharata for Indian mythology, or the Popol Vuh for Mayan beliefs.
- Exploring Context: Understand the historical and cultural contexts in which these myths were created. For example, Norse mythology reflects the harsh climates and survival-oriented ethos of ancient Scandinavia, while Egyptian myths often intertwine with the Nile’s cycles.
- Learning Symbolism: Mythology is often rich with symbolic meaning. Know what specific gods, creatures, or events represent within their original context to avoid misinterpretations.
By immersing yourself in the source material, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of its nuances, allowing you to create adaptations that are informed rather than superficial. For instance, a superficial adaptation might portray Hades as a stereotypical villain without acknowledging his role as a complex and often impartial figure in Greek mythology.
Honoring the Roots of Mythology
Using mythology in fiction comes with the responsibility of treating it respectfully, especially if you’re drawing from cultures outside your own. Here are some ways to approach this sensitively:
- Avoid Stereotypes: It’s easy to fall into clichés, such as portraying trickster gods as solely malevolent or war deities as one-dimensional warriors. Dig deeper to show their complexity.
- Consult Experts: Seek input from cultural historians, scholars, or members of the culture you’re writing about. They can provide valuable insights and help you avoid inadvertent missteps.
- Acknowledge Cultural Ownership: Some mythologies are tied to living religions and traditions. Acknowledge this in your narrative by treating such elements with care and, when possible, attributing their origins.
Find the Core Themes
Myths endure because their themes are universal. Heroes embark on quests, gods grapple with their flaws, and mortals strive to understand their place in the cosmos. Identify these core themes and consider how they can translate to your story.
- Recontextualize Timeless Motifs: A modern protagonist might undergo a journey of self-discovery mirroring Odysseus’s epic voyage, but set against the backdrop of a bustling metropolis.
- Explore Gray Areas: Many myths thrive on moral ambiguity—heroes are flawed, and gods are often capricious. Lean into these complexities to create characters and plots that feel layered and relatable.
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Make It Your Own
The magic of incorporating mythology lies in blending the familiar with the innovative. This process allows you to honor the timeless appeal of ancient stories while breathing new life into them, ensuring they resonate with modern audiences. Here are some strategies to put your own spin on classic tales:
- Change the Setting: Urban fantasy thrives on juxtaposition. Place mythological elements in unexpected environments, such as Loki managing a tech startup or Persephone navigating the politics of a modern underworld.
- Subvert Expectations: Challenge conventional portrayals of mythological figures. What if Zeus was trying to redeem his reputation in a world weary of his exploits, or Medusa turned her curse into a source of empowerment?
- Combine Mythologies: Cross-pollinating myths from different cultures can lead to fascinating narratives. For instance, a story might explore what happens when deities from Norse and Aztec traditions clash in modern-day Chicago.
- Invent Variants: Introduce alternative versions of myths to suit your worldbuilding. For example, you could reimagine the myth of the phoenix not as a singular bird but as a secretive group of immortals who periodically “die” and are reborn with new identities, seamlessly blending into human society. This adds depth to your world while providing a fresh take on a classic symbol of renewal. Perhaps vampires in your universe originated as cursed descendants of Lilith, or werewolves trace their lineage to a pact with Fenrir.
Anchor Mythology in Your Worldbuilding
In urban fantasy, mythology often intersects with contemporary life, so it’s essential to integrate it seamlessly into your setting. For example, a modern-day Persephone might work as a detective specializing in missing persons, her underworld connections giving her a unique edge in uncovering the truth. This approach ties the mythological to the contemporary, enriching both the character and the world. Consider:
- Establishing Rules: Define how mythological beings interact with the modern world. Do they hide among humans, or are they openly acknowledged?
- Blending Magic and Reality: Show how mythological phenomena influence the mundane. Perhaps dryads maintain urban green spaces, or Hermes-inspired couriers deliver packages at lightning speed.
- Exploring Conflict: Introduce tension between ancient and modern values. A deity might struggle to adapt to contemporary societal norms, creating opportunities for drama and humor.
Address Ethical Questions
Adapting mythology raises questions about ownership and representation. Writers must navigate these ethically by considering their sources, intent, and the cultural implications of their work. For example, using a myth from a living culture requires an understanding of its current significance and a commitment to portraying it authentically. This includes consulting cultural experts, acknowledging the origins of the myths, and striving to portray them with depth and respect.
- Be Transparent: Acknowledge your sources, either within the text (through characters or lore) or in author’s notes.
- Consider Why You’re Adapting: Ask yourself why you’re drawn to a particular mythology. Is it central to your story, or are you using it for aesthetic purposes? The former is more likely to result in a meaningful portrayal.
- Elevate Voices: If you’re inspired by a culture outside your own, consider how your work can amplify voices from that culture. Recommend books, acknowledge influences, or collaborate with creators from those backgrounds.
Examples of Mythology Done Right
Many authors and creators have successfully adapted mythology while maintaining originality. These stories honor traditional narratives while integrating fresh perspectives, providing new life to ancient tales, and inspiring audiences in innovative ways.
- Kevin Hearne‘s Iron Druid Chronicles: Hearne masterfully blends Celtic mythology with modern-day settings, following a druid who navigates conflicts with gods, fae, and other mythological beings while maintaining humor and authenticity.
- Neil Gaiman’s American Gods: Gaiman’s work explores how ancient gods might exist in the modern world, fueled by belief and adapting to contemporary life.
- Jim Butcher‘s Dresden Files: Butcher incorporates various mythologies into a contemporary urban fantasy setting, blending figures like the Fae, vampires, and deities into a cohesive world that is both recognizable and innovative.
That’s a Wrap
Mythology in fiction offers an incredible opportunity to connect with timeless stories while creating something distinctly your own. By researching thoroughly, respecting the source material, and infusing your work with originality, you can craft narratives that honor the past and captivate modern readers.
Urban fantasy, with its unique ability to blend magic and the mundane, offers endless possibilities for exploring rich traditions. Take this opportunity to brainstorm myth-inspired ideas. Reimagine a classic tale with a modern twist or invent entirely new myths that seamlessly integrate into your world. Whether it’s a reimagined trickster god navigating modern technology or a contemporary hero grappling with ancient curses, let mythology be the catalyst for stories that inspire and captivate. At this time, we have Norfrica, Bloodruth, Lilian Ronashi, and several more on the way for you to enjoy. You can pre-order Norfrica: Glorious Death #1 for a taste of mythology used in the Rippaverse today!
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