Icon Analysis Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Icon Analysis - Assignment Example Another important characteristic of myths is that they convey knowledge accumulated over generations. Therefore, the ‘conservativeness’ of myths is justified with regard to protecting such knowledge as well as proscribing behaviors. Myths are of several types. Myths of origin or creation myths are supernatural stories or explanations describing the beginning of humanity, earth, life and universe. The creation is often perceived as a deliberate act of deities (Leeming, 2002). Myths of eschatology emphasize destruction and death. Myths of culture heroes are more or less prominent in all societies and cultures. Myths of celestial gods and deities occur in many mythologies, especially in folk culture where myths are regarded as sacred narratives. The presence of myths can be comprehended in present day context too. For instance, the myth of the American dream is apparently visible in myriad spheres of American lifestyle. The myth of American dream dominates most of the American panorama right from its literature, plays, television shows, to music, games, novels, and most specifically, movies. The idea of American dream is rooted on the attainment of social equality and influence by all individuals irrespective of race, community, class and religion. However, it is a myth advocating that the socio-economic structure of the nation is not in equilibrium as the rich are getting richer and the poor poorer. The main components of the myth of American dream are: dishonesty, superficiality and deceit. The myth is considerably dealt in Arthur Miller’s most celebrated play Death of a Salesman. Here, the protagonist is fixated with the superficiality of the comforts of life so much in the false hope that his American dream will be fulfilled without hard work and honesty. Failure to face the harsh reality of the deceitful world of business as well as to realize the true world sans imagination brings the end of his American dream. His