The Influence of Greek Mythology on Modern Language
Posted on | July 10, 2008 |
Nowadays, the ancient Greek language is virtually extinct. It’s maintained mainly among scholars and historians. However, the ancient Greek language and particularly Greek mythology have had a great influence on the English that we speak today, as well as on several other languages.
For instance, many medical terms borrow from Greek mythology. The drug morphine borrows its name from Morpheus, the Greek God of Slumber. Similarly, the term “aphrodisiac”, which refers to something that arouses desire, comes from Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, lust, beauty and fertility.
Often times, when someone has a weakness it is referred to as their “Achilles’ heel” or “Achilles’ tendon”. In Greek mythology, Achilles was a Greek Hero of the Trojan War, who was said to have a body that was completely impervious to attack, except for his heel. In Greek mythology, Achilles was said to have been mortally wounded by an arrow that struck his heel.
The influence of Greek mythology on modern language has even become evident in the computer age. A very common type of computer virus is known as a “Trojan”, as a reference to the Trojan horse built by the Greek that was used to infiltrate Troy and subsequently ended the Trojan War. This virus functions similarly to the Trojan horse of Greek mythology, by disguising itself as something else and then attacking or compromising system resources.
Perhaps you’ve heard of a popular auto maintenance company called Midas? They’re official slogan “Trust the Midas touch” borrows from the mythological King Midas, who was said to have a touch that would turn anything into gold. The expression “the Midas touch” is commonly used to refer to someone that is consistently successful with whatever they attempt, particularly in terms of business.
The examples certainly don’t stop there. There are many common English words, phrases, figures of speech and even proverbs that borrow from Greek mythology. Ever heard of Pandora’s Box? Stuck between a rock and a hard place? What about a beautiful woman said to have a “face that launched a thousand ships”? As you further explore the vast world of Greek mythology, you’re likely to discover some familiar (and some not-so-familiar) terms that you otherwise might have never known the origin of.
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