Allusions in Greek and Roman Mythology and the Modern Day

ALLUSIONSIn Greek and Roman myth and the modern day

The OdysseyThe Odyssey, as we have learned, is an epic poem which takes place over vast amounts of land. It turns out that there is also a car called the "Honda Odyssey". This seems to be a fitting title, considering it implies that the vehicle is meant for transportation. This could be an advertising factor, not only does it say that this car is capable of travelling far distances, but it's journeys are filled with excitement and adventure. Also, there is a popular and highly rated cruise line called "The Odyssey", and it follows the same concept and reasoning as the car (transportation, vast amounts of land, adventure, excitement).

Harry PotterThere are many epic heroes in our modern day, such as Harry Potter. Although he possesses magical powers, he uses his instinct and mind in difficult situations. Harry remains faithful to his family and friends, never betraying them, whether they be alive or not. He is definitely a brave; countless times he has felt fear, yet he knew he had responsibilities to fulfil, the main one being defeating evil (Voldemort) so that goodness may prevail. The Harry Potter series in general is filled with mythology allusions. As mentioned earlier, mermaids or merpeople are compared to Sirens, and Harry had to get past them in the Tri-wizard tournament, similarly Odysseus and his companions had to overcome the Sirens. Hermione may be depicted as the daughter of Aphrodite, an intelligent girl that was a great strategist. The ghosts in Harry Potter also held many parallels to the ones in The Odyssey. They advise about the future, then leave. Many are still sorrowful about their past. Odysseus talked to one of his men and his mother. Harry talked to Cedric and his parents when he needed them the most.

ArielMermaids are derived from the idea of Sirens (I assume their melodic voices were inspired by them). Ariel's dad was Neptune, the Roman name for Poseidon. The idea of Ursula came from the Greek monster Scylla (perhaps because they were both said to have many tentacles and bring woe to man).

VenusVenus, the Roman name for Aphrodite, is the goddess of beauty and love. Venus is the name of a famous beauty product company, an International beauty talent agency, a swimsuit manufacturer and a popular woman's shaving accessory. Venus Beauty Salon is found in most cities and towns as well. (All beauty related considering Venus is the goddess of beauty and love).

NikeNike is the winged goddess of victory, who can fly at great speeds. Today, it is a very famous worldwide marketing and selling of footwear, apparel, equipment, accessories and services. This makes sense because when one is promoting such products, they want their customers to believe that they will be victorious.

MusicThere are many mythology allusions in music. Various songs include names of gods/ goddesses/ heroes, or tell a story based on a myth. There is even a style of music called "Calypso". To the left is one of the many examples of these songs. The lyrics suggest that the singer is in need of strength or courage ("make me a Hercules").

ClichésThere are many clichés today that are associated with mythology, such as Scylla and Charybdis, Achilles' heel, Midas touch, siren voices and lotus plant. For example, a successful business person might say that he has the Midas touch, because "everything he touched turns to gold" (money). Or a common teenager would describe the internet as their siren or lotus plant, because it is distracting and addicting.

PegasusThe Pegasus is a winged horse that represents freedom, and it is a common allusion found in the modern day. One of the places that it is found is on Massey's Yearbook cover. This is meant to symbolize that the students are free and are encouraged to proceed in life alone and independently. Pegasus Expedite Company is a delivery/ courier service also.