A Comparative Study of Shared Narrative Elements in Iranian and Greek Myths and Their Pedagogical Applications in Teaching Persian Reading Skills"

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Assistant Professor of English language and Literature, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran (Corresponding Author, kalantari311@gmail.com)

Abstract

From early life, humans are shaped by the stories of their mother tongue and the cultural beliefs of their communities. These narratives intertwine with lived experience, influencing both personal and collective identities and transmitting cultural knowledge across generations. Stories reflect a culture’s literature, values, and aesthetic sensibilities, while mythological narratives, such as those in Persian tradition, encapsulate artistic expression and cultural understanding. Integrating myths into language education can enhance comprehension and facilitate language acquisition by creating emotional connections and mental frameworks conducive to learning.

This study explores the concept of myth and its connection with literature, emphasizing the role of cultural texts in developing reading skills. Drawing on schema theory, myths are seen as texts that activate learners’ prior cultural knowledge, promoting deeper comprehension and interpretive skills. The research compares Iranian myths with other cultural mythologies, particularly Greek myths, to examine narrative structures, symbolism, and cultural literacy. This comparative approach highlights how shared and divergent mythological elements shape understanding and engage readers.

Findings indicate that myths support reading proficiency, vocabulary expansion, critical thinking, and cultural awareness in language learners. By examining how narrative structures and cultural elements interact, the study demonstrates that myths are not only literary artifacts but also pedagogical tools. A conceptual model is proposed showing how myth integrates linguistic, cognitive, and cultural development, supporting holistic language learning and reinforcing the value of storytelling as a bridge between culture and language education..

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References

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History

  • Receive Date: 07 November 2025
  • Revise Date: 08 January 2026
  • Accept Date: 10 February 2026

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