Final answer:
Mythology deeply influenced early history-writing in ancient Greek and Roman cultures, leading to a transition towards critical thinking and the use of primary sources. Historians like Herodotus and Thucydides marked a new approach by seeking out evidence and exploring human motivations within historical events.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mythology significantly influenced the development of historical writing in ancient Greek and Roman culture. The transition from mythological narratives to a more rational and reflective approach to storytelling marked an evolution in how history was recorded and understood. The Greeks began to challenge existing myths by applying critical thinking, leading to a new era of history-writing exemplified by figures such as Herodotus and Thucydides. These historians were pioneers in using primary sources and personal travels to inform their historical narratives and explanations of human motivations and societal events.
Roman history-writing also drew heavily from Greek influences, incorporating narrative epics similar to those of Homer and others. The extensive use of mythical symbols in Greek art demonstrates the deeply embedded role of mythology in Greek culture. It was through poetry and the arts that the Greeks expressed their identity and values. The shift from purely mythic understanding to a more evidence-based study of history was a major cultural shift, reinforcing the importance of empirical evidence and primary sources in the recording of history.
The skepticism and inquiry that developed in Socratic times were milestones that further detached historical writing from the mythical framework. This evolution can be seen as a move towards a more scientific and objective approach to history, integrating critical analysis while still recognizing the educational and moral significance of mythological tales.