Myths at Play: Greek Mythology in Video Games

Undergraduate / Graduate

This course will explore the use of Greek mythological characters in video games through theoretical and practical lenses that focus the cultural adaptation of myth as meaning. Students will become familiar with theories of mythology and narrative; the evolution and reception of Greek myth along with the myths themselves; and specific game titles including Hades, Persona 3, and King's Quest VI, among others. Readings will span from Levi-Strauss' and Derrida's conceptions of myth to transmedia narrative theory from Ryan and Thon and include several close readings of our video game repertoire. Assessments will be multimedia game analyses and reflections. No prior knowledge of Greek myth, video games, or theory are required.