Final answer:
Different versions of the same myth exist because myths evolve as they are passed down, influenced by storytellers, audiences, and cultural values. The example of the earth-diver myth and the varied interpretations of the myth of narcissus illustrate how societal values are reflected in these stories. Myths, including their more controversial forms, help in the cultural cohesion and identity of societies.
Step-by-step explanation:
There can be different versions of the same myth because myths are stories that have been passed down through generations, often orally, and every time they are told, elements may change based on the storyteller's perspective, the audience, or cultural context. One example is the various tellings of the creation story in the earth-diver myth, which has been studied by folklorist Alan Dundes. These stories are not just for entertainment; they carry deep meanings and reflect the values, beliefs, and history of the cultures that share them.
The subject matter of myths often touches on major philosophical questions, asking whether there is one reality or multiple realities perceived differently by humans. This can lead to multiple interpretations of a single narrative. The myth of narcissus, as retold in Ovid's Metamorphoses, for instance, showcases different societal values and has numerous versions that highlight varying aspects of excessive pride and its consequences.
Additionally, the concept of broken myth comes into play, which are stories known to be untrue but still shared for their underlying moral or societal values. Myths, in their varying forms, are a crucial element in providing cohesion and identity to societies, even when they contradict historical evidence. Myths like that of the United States being the land of opportunity, while ignoring its past of land theft and slavery, showcase how myths evolve and are reinterpreted over time to serve current ideological needs.