Themes, symbols, and motifs are valuable aspects of any literary work, and they add richness to stories. Part of the Common Core ELA standards is to introduce and explain these complex concepts. However, abstract ideas are often difficult for students to analyze without assistance. Using a storyboard, students can visually demonstrate their understanding of these concepts, and master analysis of literary elements. For best practices, see our supplementary article with specific lesson plan steps on setting up your classroom and activities to teach themes, symbols, and motifs.
In the classroom, students can track the rich symbolism that occurs in the stories of the gods.
A fascinating theme throughout Greek mythology is the manifestation of vices, or flaws, in the Greek gods and goddesses. This may startle many people, because when they think of a 'god', the term is synonymous with ideal perfection. However, the gods of old were tempted by pity, jealousy, and adultery, like their human counterparts.
Temptation is a related theme with deep roots in Greek myths. Many stories hinge on a temptation that a god or goddess must overcome. An archetypal example is Pandora's Box. In the story, Pandora is given a special box, with instructions not to open it. She is overtaken by the temptation, and unleashes evil into the world!
The gods believed that every action had a consequence. Good actions were always rewarded, whereas evil actions required punishment. The gods loved to banish, or eternally punish humans who disobeyed them!
Although, many of the gods were powerful and mighty, possessing powers beyond human ability, they cherished a stable mind more than their strength. Many Greek myths incorporate the theme of brains over brawn, with protagonists outsmarting their opponents to achieve their objectives.
The gods love war! In the eyes of the Greeks, war was a part of their existence. They thought it was an honor to die in battle, and that cowards and deserters were not to be given a proper burial. They believed in an eye for an eye, and that bloodshed deserved bloodshed. Many of the gods involved themselves in mortal affairs, and would often choose sides. Battles were won by larger than life warriors like Odysseus or Achilles.
Love in Greek Mythology is often one-sided and not returned, usually leading to tragedy and abandonment for one of the parties involved. Love between gods and humans seldom works out well. Selfish love often ends in suffering for one or both of the people involved.
The Greeks firmly believed that a person's life is predetermined, at least to some extent. They relied heavily on the gods' ability to change a mortal's fate, although it might not always be for the better!
The Greeks valued beauty very much, in both women and men.
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Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that identifies recurring themes in Greek mythology. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Start by asking students to name objects or animals that appear often in Greek myths. Guide them to consider what these items might represent, connecting to real-life emotions or experiences. This sparks curiosity and builds foundational understanding before diving into formal analysis.
Display vivid images or short video clips of common Greek mythological symbols (like lightning bolts, olive branches, or labyrinths). Invite students to discuss what each might mean in the context of a story. Visual cues help students remember and interpret symbols more easily.
Collaboratively build a chart listing symbols, their meanings, and example stories. Assign roles for researching and illustrating each symbol. This interactive process helps students take ownership of key concepts and creates a ready reference for future lessons.
Read a paragraph aloud and highlight possible symbols or motifs. Ask guiding questions like, "What could the golden apple represent here?" or "Why does the author mention storms?" This step demonstrates how to dig deeper for meaning.
Have students pick a Greek myth and create their own mini-storyboard, comic, or poster showing key symbols and what they stand for. Allow for artistic choice—drawings, collage, or digital art. This boosts engagement and cements comprehension.
Common themes in Greek mythology include human flaws, temptation, payback and reward, brains over brawn, war, love, fate, and beauty. These recurring elements help convey moral lessons and reflect ancient Greek values.
Teaching themes, symbols, and motifs can be made engaging by using storyboards where students visually identify and illustrate examples from myths. Encourage discussion and have students describe how these elements shape the stories and characters.
Greek gods are depicted with human flaws to make their stories relatable and to demonstrate that even powerful beings are subject to vices like jealousy, temptation, and pride. These imperfections drive the plot and teach important life lessons.
A theme is the central idea or message in a story, a symbol is an object or image that represents something deeper, and a motif is a recurring element or idea. All three enhance meaning and understanding in literature.
Examples of symbols and motifs in Greek mythology include Pandora's Box (curiosity and consequences), the labyrinth (complexity and confusion), and the olive branch (peace). These elements appear repeatedly to reinforce themes and messages.