The Zelda video game franchise includes a ton of cool creatures, characters, items, and enemies! Many of these beasts and objects from Hyrule are inspired by the mythology from the real world. Over five recordings (each 30-50 minutes long), we'll explore mythical stories from our world, and compare them to the creatures Link encounters in the many Zelda games. Almost all of the Zelda games are represented in some form; while some games have more mythology references than others, almost all of the games have at least a few mythical references. Students will also be invited to create their own Zelda characters and bosses using creatures from mythology that have not yet been included in the Zelda games.

Please note that this is not a comprehensive overview of all mythologies of the world. Instead, the focus is on which creatures, characters, and items from mythology have similarities to Zelda. Prior to class, students should have a general knowledge of what mythology is, and why different cultures around the world would have different mythologies.

Part 1: Mythology of the World (mythologies that exist in multiple countries)

Part 2: Greek Mythology

Part 3: Norse Mythology, Celtic Mythology, and European Folklore

Part 4: Asian Mythology and Mythology of the Middle East

Part 5: Mythology of the Americas, Africa, Australia, and Polynesia