03 in the Odyssey series. Discussing symbols and their meaning in the epic genre context

1. The OdysseySymbols By Homer The epic story of a journey — Symbolic of our journey through life.

2. What areSymbolArchetypes?

3. Symbol Archetypes Visual symbols that convey meaning to the human psyche in a mysterious, somewhat subliminal way.

4. Do you know what subliminal means?

5. Subliminal Dictionary definition: “existing or functioning below the threshold of consciousness.”

6. Symbol Archetypes Communicate messages that verbal and written information cannot.

7. Symbol Archetypes Hold the same or almost the same meaning for all humankind Occur in cultures so remote that there has been no chance for influence or communication

8. Symbol Archetypes River — Life, the flow of time Wheel — a complete cycle Water — purification, the unconscious Rising sun — birth, beginning Setting sun — death, ending Circle — unity Snake — evil

9. Symbol Archetypes The seasons — life cycle Garden — paradise Tree —life; growth Fire — life; passion, destruction

10. Symbol Archetypes Colors Red — violence, passion Green — growth, hope Blue — truth, security Black — death, evil White — purity, innocence, mystery

11. Symbol Archetypes Numbers 3 — spirituality 4-life cycle — nature 7 — perfect order (3+4)