This course studies the major characters and tales from Greek and Roman mythology. It takes a thematic approach to myths and legends from a variety of sources, examining humanity's attempt to explain the unknown: the beginning of the world, creation of living creatures, explanation of natural phenomena, relationships between gods and mortals, deeds of super heroes, testing, death, and afterlife. The emphasis is primarily on Western culture -- Greek and Roman myths which have influenced literature and allied arts from earliest time.