Myths and religious doctrine are generally recognized as two entirely different things. Myths are generally referred to as fictional stories or half-truths; they are often stories shared between groups of people who are part of a cultural society. Religion is a set of beliefs concerning the cause and purpose of the universe and often containing an ethical code dictating appropriate human conduct. Although they differ in some aspects, they still have similarities. Comparable to parables in the Bible, myths have different versions that are both motivating and entertaining. Not only are there parallels to the idea of ​​the stories, but specific tales have similar morals and equivalent characters. “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only begotten Son of the Father, full of grace and truth.” (New Revised Standard Version, John 1:14) As the only begotten son of God in Christian theology, Jesus Christ was burdened with a multitude of trials and horrors that the common man would have rebuked and refused to endure. 'undertake. . However, as a demigod born of the divine Christian deity and the mortal virgin Mary, Jesus was not an average mortal. Jesus was not the first in history to boast of such a birth line. Many examples exist in ancient tales; However, Hercules, the illegitimate son of Zeus (supreme god of the Greek pantheon) and Alcmene (a mortal woman), is perhaps one of the best known. While Jesus' birth took place with Mary's consent and recognition, Alcmene was deceived into a relationship with Zeus; It is interesting to note, however, that neither design was that of a traditional coupling. Both Jesus and Hercules were doomed to die from birth. Hera, the Station of Hercules...... middle of paper ......ation that would be interchangeable with assessments. Is it a coincidence that many cultures share certain aspects of a hero? No, all societies want their champions to defend certain values; such as courage, strength, determination and the ability to overcome in the face of horrible adversity. I believe these traits transcend culture, religion and time; the only difference is that most ancient religions are now relegated to mythology. Works CitedGraves, Kersey. The sixteen crucified saviors of the world or Christianity before Christ. Web.BookTagsEditDelete"MythNET - Hercules." The classics revealed. Internet. April 1, 2012. .WebsiteTagsEditDelete “New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.” Daily devotions. Internet. April 01, 2012. .Website