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World Myth Quizzes, Trivia and Puzzles
World Myth Quizzes, Trivia

World Myth Trivia

World Myth Trivia Quizzes

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From ancient times to the present, myths have been used for a variety of reasons, including the explanation of the existence of natural phenomena and historical events. Cultures all over the world have developed these stories that are still read and enjoyed today.
62 World Myth quizzes and 868 World Myth trivia questions.
Sub-Categories:
1.
Tale As Old As Time
  Tale As Old As Time editor best quiz   best quiz  
Photo Match
 10 Qns
A nation often defines itself through the stories it tells. From the oral tradition of songs, poems and epic tales to the written word, traditions and culture have passed down through the generations. Simply match the story to its flag and synopsis.
Average, 10 Qns, Snowman, Jul 31 24
Average
Snowman gold member
Jul 31 24
182 plays
2.
  Probably, Sort of, Kind of True   best quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Is There any Truth in Myths?
Myths are works of fiction, but are they totally false? Is there a grain of truth within the myth or was the story based on a truth? The questions in this quiz introduce the myth, you'll need to read the information that follows to find the truth.
Easier, 10 Qns, pollucci19, Sep 20 24
Easier
pollucci19 gold member
Sep 20 24
505 plays
3.
  Deities in World Mythology   top quiz  
Fun Fill-It
 12 Qns
Nearly all of us are familiar with the gods and goddesses of the sun, war and love and the tricksters of Greek and Roman myth, but how about those from other regions. Fill in the blanks in this quiz from the hints given in the narrative.
Easier, 12 Qns, rossian, May 12 24
Easier
rossian editor
May 12 24
156 plays
4.
  Myths and Legends of the Baltic Region   great trivia quiz  
Fun Fill-It
 10 Qns
The Baltic states are Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. The myths and legends of this region are less known than many others but I have built in clues to help you with this narrative quiz. You just need to fill in the blanks with the correct words.
Easier, 10 Qns, rossian, Sep 12 24
Easier
rossian editor
Sep 12 24
191 plays
5.
  Cry Havoc, and Let Slip the Gods of War!   best quiz  
Match Quiz
 10 Qns
Deities represent not only elements or physical things, but also concepts humans are familiar with, such as love, death and war. These deities are all gods or goddesses of war - can you match them with the religions/cultures they come from?
Easier, 10 Qns, Kankurette, May 06 23
Easier
Kankurette gold member
May 06 23
229 plays
6.
  There Are Diamonds Dancin' in the Sky   great trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Rihanna once compared stars to diamonds, and stars are not only beautiful, but also play an important role in various world myths. You might know the Greek origins of the Western Zodiac, but what about other myths and lesser-known stars?
Average, 10 Qns, Kankurette, Oct 14 22
Average
Kankurette gold member
Oct 14 22
424 plays
7.
Myths and Legends of England
  Myths and Legends of England   top quiz  
Photo Quiz
 10 Qns
When you think of myths of the UK, Celtic myth seems to dominate, but England does have myths of its own. This quiz covers a few of them, with some photos to assist.
Average, 10 Qns, rossian, Jun 09 22
Average
rossian editor
Jun 09 22
746 plays
8.
Take a Hike
  Take a Hike    
Photo Quiz
 10 Qns
Mountains are the homes of creation legends, earth shattering events, and everything in between. Take a hike up these ten mountains, each of which plays an important role in various world myths.
Average, 10 Qns, Joepetz, May 27 24
Average
Joepetz gold member
May 27 24
349 plays
9.
  I am the God or Goddess of War    
Match Quiz
 10 Qns
Match the god or goddess of war with the correct culture.
Easier, 10 Qns, bernie73, May 10 23
Easier
bernie73 gold member
May 10 23
157 plays
10.
  Fox Haunting editor best quiz   great trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Foxes have appeared in myths and legends worldwide, in various forms. While some mythical foxes are lovable tricksters, others are downright malicious.
Average, 10 Qns, Kankurette, Nov 16 22
Average
Kankurette gold member
Nov 16 22
207 plays
trivia question Quick Question
He's a tree-dweller who never shaves and who loves a good smoke on his everlasting cigar.

From Quiz "Filipino Mythical Creatures"




11.
  Myths and Legends of Scotland   top quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Scotland has many myths, some well known and others which may be new to you. I hope you enjoy finding out about some of them.
Average, 10 Qns, rossian, Mar 30 16
Average
rossian editor
1088 plays
12.
  Mayan Myth   great trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
The Mayan civilization bloomed in the Mesoamerica area from 300 BC until the Spanish arrived in the 1500s. Elements of Mayan myth are similar to those of other civilizations. Here are some of their views of the gods and their relationship with humans.
Average, 10 Qns, pollucci19, Jul 18 22
Average
pollucci19 gold member
Jul 18 22
173 plays
13.
  Kenya: Her Tales and Her People   great trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
I hope you enjoy this quiz - taken largely from Paul Radin's "African Folktales". Reading the book helps, but you may be able to get these regardless.
Average, 10 Qns, stuthehistoryguy, Mar 30 09
Average
stuthehistoryguy gold member
1640 plays
14.
  Layla and Majnun   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
This true story of unrequited love (along with Patti) provided the inspiration for Eric Clapton's "Layla".
Average, 10 Qns, ponycargirl, Feb 20 09
Average
ponycargirl editor
572 plays
15.
Waking Light
  Waking Light    
Photo Quiz
 10 Qns
Here are ten Goddesses of Dawn. They come from different locations and times. Let's see how many of them you remember.
Average, 10 Qns, dcpddc478, Nov 06 24
Average
dcpddc478
Nov 06 24
371 plays
16.
  Gods and Pumas and Eggs, Oh My!   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
The Aztecs have their own category, but what about the Incas? As a child, I did a topic on the Incas in primary school, and my parents bought me a book of Inca myths and legends. This quiz is about some of them.
Average, 10 Qns, Kankurette, Mar 11 21
Average
Kankurette gold member
Mar 11 21
170 plays
17.
  Cursed, You Say?   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
In response to a challenge from Jazmee27 for the Author Challenges badge, here is a quiz on curses. Bring out your dead, bring out your dead!
Average, 10 Qns, Creedy, Jul 21 19
Average
Creedy gold member
Jul 21 19
938 plays
18.
  Filipino Mythical Creatures    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
This is about creatures appearing in Filipino myths, legends, epics and folk tales. I'll describe it, you name it.
Average, 10 Qns, layadriel, Feb 25 08
Average
layadriel
2140 plays
19.
  Anansi: The Trickster   great trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
For my 185th quiz I have finally decided to write for the Humanities category. This quiz explores the mythology of Anansi. Enjoy!
Easier, 10 Qns, jonnowales, Nov 01 24
Easier
jonnowales gold member
Nov 01 24
134 plays
20.
  Japanese Mythology    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
As someone who respects Japanese culture, I have learned about some fascinating Japanese deities and a wonderful creation myth of Japan. I hope you enjoy the mythos of Japan as much as I do.
Tough, 10 Qns, Play3Away, Jun 04 21
Tough
Play3Away
Jun 04 21
548 plays
21.
  C'mon Baby, Light My Fire!   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Was Jim Morrison a closet pyromaniac or perhaps just a secret sun worshiper? Join us on a journey of discovery into the world of fire-related mythology as we seek to answer this most burning question.
Average, 10 Qns, jaknginger, Dec 12 13
Average
jaknginger gold member
521 plays
22.
  Wee Scottish Beasties   great trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Scotland is full of myths and legends. How much do you know about the creatures that infest the tartan lands?
Average, 10 Qns, ajwtimperley, Sep 01 10
Average
ajwtimperley
571 plays
23.
  Japanese Mythology - The Creation   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
This quiz looks at how the world was created in Japanese mythology and the gods who played a role in its creation. Enjoy!
Tough, 10 Qns, doublemm, Aug 02 13
Tough
doublemm gold member
264 plays
24.
  Japanese Mythology - Gods to Men   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
This quiz looks at some tales of gods in early Japanese mythology, as well as the stories of human heroes. Enjoy!
Tough, 10 Qns, doublemm, Aug 07 13
Tough
doublemm gold member
249 plays
25.
  Figures from Celtic Folklore   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Celtic culture is primarily found in six Celtic nations of the British Isles and France. Here are some folklore figures from these traditions. By the way, each of these names has a multitude of spelling variations, so bear with me. Thanks and enjoy!
Average, 10 Qns, shvdotr, Jul 31 17
Average
shvdotr gold member
224 plays
26.
  Fruits of the Gods    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Fruit has appeared in mythology from cultures all over the world. Take your sweet time and enjoy these ten questions about fruits and the legends that surround them.
Average, 10 Qns, dcpddc478, Sep 11 15
Average
dcpddc478
685 plays
27.
  Fascinating Mythology from the Ryukyuan Isles   great trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
The Ryukyuan indigenous faith may share similarities with Chinese and Japanese religions but it still retains distinct beliefs that are rooted in myths. Here we delve into some of these intriguing Ryukyuan legends.
Tough, 10 Qns, purelyqing, Jun 30 22
Tough
purelyqing gold member
Jun 30 22
149 plays
28.
  Magical Stories Found in the Night Sky   great trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
The names and stories of many stars and constellations are related to magical events on earth. Which of these can you identify? Have fun!
Average, 10 Qns, shvdotr, Jul 07 16
Average
shvdotr gold member
249 plays
29.
  Not Just Nessie   great trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Scottish folklore is full of beasts, fairies and malicious spirits, not just Nessie! How much do you know about these beings?
Tough, 10 Qns, doublemm, Aug 13 10
Tough
doublemm gold member
491 plays
30.
  He's a Hero    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
This is a quiz about some of the heroes in mythology and folklore, throughout time. They come from different centuries, different countries, and were thought to be heroes for different reasons.
Average, 10 Qns, dcpddc478, Mar 21 15
Average
dcpddc478
439 plays
31.
  Some Folks from Russian Folklore   best quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Funky questions on some major figures in Russian folklore.
Tough, 10 Qns, stuthehistoryguy, Apr 30 21
Tough
stuthehistoryguy gold member
Apr 30 21
822 plays
32.
  Genie Myths and Lore   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
This a quiz on genie mythology spanning many different cultures but with a heavy focus on Islamic culture where genies or jinn have had a significant presence. Wish for good luck!
Tough, 10 Qns, Joepetz, Nov 21 15
Tough
Joepetz gold member
308 plays
33.
  Outstanding Ovarian Ogres of Old   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Here is a quiz about some of the more infamous mythical female beings. Let's see what you remember about these memorable monsters.
Average, 10 Qns, dcpddc478, Jul 23 14
Average
dcpddc478
477 plays
34.
  Japanese Mythology - Spirits and Creatures    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Japanese mythology is rich with bizarre and wondrous spiritual beings and creatures. Here are just some of them. Enjoy!
Average, 10 Qns, doublemm, Aug 11 14
Average
doublemm gold member
244 plays
35.
  Lesser Gods    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Everyone has heard of Zeus, Odin, and all the major gods of world mythology, but this quiz deals with the lesser gods and goddesses from a variety of world mythology. It was written in response to a challenge by lowtechmaster.
Average, 10 Qns, TheQueenly1, Jul 04 16
Average
TheQueenly1
262 plays
36.
  The Tales of Wales   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
How much do you know about the beasts, fairies, and other mystical beings found in Welsh folklore? Take this challenging quiz and find out.
Average, 10 Qns, doublemm, Jul 22 21
Average
doublemm gold member
Jul 22 21
328 plays
37.
  Hawai'ian Mythology    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Not only are the Hawai'ian Islands a beautiful tropical vacation paradise, but they have a rich culture and fascinating mythology.
Average, 10 Qns, aliki, Mar 04 13
Average
aliki
318 plays
38.
  Slavic and Russian Mythology, Legend, and Folklore    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
This quiz is a survey of some figures found in Slavic and Russian legend, myth, and folklore. Some of these entities are lesser known. All entries have been selected from "The Encyclopedia of Russian and Slavic Myth and Legend" (Mike Dixon-Kennedy ed.)
Difficult, 10 Qns, ironqueen, May 30 12
Difficult
ironqueen
468 plays
39.
  The Animals of Mesoamerican Myths    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
This quiz is based on the animals found in Aztec, Mayan, and other Mesoamerican cultures' myths. Even though this quiz is difficult, I hope you will try it and hopefully learn a lot!
Average, 10 Qns, theskink, Feb 21 12
Average
theskink
295 plays
40.
  Ancient 'Poem of Aqhat'    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
This ancient epic poem was written approximately 3300 years ago, but the resounding tone of the poem may resonate with people of the modern era. You may never have heard of it...but give it a try anyway!
Tough, 10 Qns, thejazzkickazz, Dec 12 12
Tough
thejazzkickazz gold member
547 plays
41.
  Exact Revenge   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
This quiz will cover ten ancient mythological tales of a dish best served cold: Revenge! (Note: they will not appear in chronological order.)
Tough, 10 Qns, Lorvanwa, Dec 01 11
Tough
Lorvanwa
418 plays
42.
  God of Thunder   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
A quizzical visit to mythological Gods of Thunder.
Average, 10 Qns, gme24, Jan 03 15
Average
gme24 gold member
314 plays
43.
  A World Full of Myths   popular trivia quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Enjoy a tour around the world of myths and legends.
Tough, 10 Qns, ClaudiaCat, Oct 26 22
Tough
ClaudiaCat gold member
Oct 26 22
638 plays
44.
  Gods and Goddesses of Japanese Myth    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
There are many quizzes on Gods and Goddesses. This one also is on Gods and Goddesses but of Japanese myth. I hope you enjoy it!
Average, 10 Qns, Hiyori, Nov 29 14
Average
Hiyori
324 plays
45.
  Prince Madoc   top quiz  
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
The Welsh legend says he discovered America before Columbus. Did he really? Historians are still arguing over it.
Average, 10 Qns, blakey, Feb 20 20
Average
blakey
Feb 20 20
570 plays
46.
  Australian Mythical Creatures and Cryptids    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
I was searching through the Myths and Legends, and although I found them all interesting, I was disappointed to find that there wasn't any that I could see on some of the myths that float around Australia.
Average, 10 Qns, AussieAngel96, Mar 23 11
Average
AussieAngel96
349 plays
47.
  Japanese Mythology II    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Japan has many gods and goddesses but there is a group of gods specifically known for their luck. These are the "Seven Lucky Gods of Japan." Take this quiz and see if you know what kinds of luck each god brings.
Tough, 10 Qns, Play3Away, May 17 15
Tough
Play3Away
266 plays
48.
  Myths and Legends of Lithuania    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
Hej, have you ever heard of Lithuania? Do you know, that Lithuanians were the last pagans of Europe? Try your wits and answer these questions, concerning Lithuanian mythology, legends and ...
Tough, 10 Qns, Angua, Jun 26 20
Tough
Angua
Jun 26 20
554 plays
49.
  Giant Apes?    
Multiple Choice
 10 Qns
During the last few centuries reports of giant ape-like creatures have become subject of local folklore in various places throughout the world.
Tough, 10 Qns, blackandgreen, Sep 17 14
Tough
blackandgreen
243 plays

World Myth Trivia Questions

1. With which natural phenomenon are foxes associated in northern Finland?

From Quiz
Fox Haunting

Answer: Aurora borealis, or Northern Lights

The Finnish word for 'Northern Lights' is 'revontulet', which means 'foxes' fire'. In the folklore of northern Finland and Lapland, Tulikettu the firefox was a legendary giant fox who lived in the north, and it was every hunter's dream to catch him, as catching him would make them rich. However, he could not be caught because he was as fast as the wind. When Tulikettu ran through the snow, his fur touching the snow would create sparks, which became the Northern Lights. There's some truth in the myth - in freezing cold weather, when the air is dry, a fox's fur can become electrified and create tiny sparks.

2. Which Japanese Shinto festival celebrates the annual meeting of Orihime and Hikoboshi, a pair of lovers associated with the stars Vega and Altair?

From Quiz There Are Diamonds Dancin' in the Sky

Answer: Tanabata

Talk about star-crossed lovers! If you're a fan of the manga 'Bleach', you might associate the name Orihime with Ichigo Kurosaki's eccentric friend with fairies in her hair clips. 'Bleach' writer Tite Kubo named his heroine after the legendary weaver associated with Vega, the brightest star in the constellation of Lyra. Together with Altair and Deneb, Vega forms part of the Summer Triangle. Tanabata was introduced to Japan by the Empress Kouken in 755 and was based on the Chinese festival of Qixi. The festival increased in popularity during the Edo period (between 1603 and 1867), when the custom of writing wishes on strips of paper arose. The main story behind the Tanabata festival bears similarities to the Chinese folktale of the cowherd and the weaver girl; in the most popular version has Orihime, the daughter of Tentei (the Sky King), weaved clothes for her father, but she was sad and lonely because she spent too much time working to meet anyone. Tentei introduced her to Hikoboshi, a cowherd who lived on the other side of the Amanogawa River (aka the Milky Way), and the two fell in love at first sight; however, Orihime stopped weaving clothes and Hikoboshi let his cattle wander, so Tentei forbid the couple from seeing each other. Orihime cried and begged her father to reconsider, so Tentei made a compromise: if Orihime worked hard, she could see Hikoboshi on the seventh day of the seventh month. The first time they tried to meet, there was no bridge over the Amanogawa, and when Orihime cried, her tears summoned a flock of magpies, who made a bridge. Thus, when Vega and Altair can be seen in the sky, it means Orihime and Hikoboshi are meeting.

3. Hamahiga Island in the Okinawa prefecture holds sacred sites dedicated to which gods, touted as the first gods of Okinawa?

From Quiz Fascinating Mythology from the Ryukyuan Isles

Answer: Shirumichu & Amamichu

The legends differ about Shirumichu and the goddess Amamichu. In its basic form, the pair were instructed to descend from the heavens and build the island of Ryukyu, which, today, is Okinawa. They created the soil and the stones and then they added the flowers and the trees. So satisfied with their work they decided to live there as humans. Over time they raised five children with the eldest being declared king. The next two in line were established as warrior and priest. The fourth child was made a chief priest and a small village was granted to the youngest child to look after. With this arrangement they established the model that Okinawans would live by. This question was constructed by Phoenix Rising's pollucci19, who designed his own badge to read "god" but accidentally spelled it backwards.

4. Which Inca god was the god of creation, who carved people and animals out of stone?

From Quiz Gods and Pumas and Eggs, Oh My!

Answer: Viracocha

Viracocha, also known as Kon-Tiki and Apu Qun Tiqsi Wiraqutra, was an Inca creator god who created the universe, sun, moon, stars, and humanity itself, which he carved out of stone. He was depicted as wearing the sun for a crown and carrying thunderbolts. Inti, the god of the sun, and Mamaquilla, the goddess of the moon, were his children. His early creations were giants, but he was dissatisfied with them and broke them, and made smaller people instead. When the people started to forget Viracocha, he became angry and killed them, either by turning them into stone, drowning them with a massive flood, or making the ground swallow them; however, he spared three people so they could help him start again. He made a new set of people and animals and sent them out in the world, and traveled the world to see how they were getting on. In the village of Cacha, the people did not recognise him, so he set the village on fire. When the people panicked and promised to worship him, he stopped the fire but let one hill burn as a reminder. Viracocha finally went down to the ocean and told his people that he would be leaving them, but that he would send a messenger to watch over them, and walked away into the sea (hence the name 'Viracocha', which means 'sea spray').

5. Which giant of Welsh folklore is a Celtic hero and King of Britain, whose head was buried in London to protect the island?

From Quiz Figures from Celtic Folklore

Answer: Bran

Also known as Bran the Blessed, this hero also shares the name of the God of Regeneration, Bran Fendigaid. "Bran" means crow or raven in Welsh. He was so large that he was able to walk from Britain to Ireland while his forces sailed, when Bran's sister was in distress. Mortally wounded fighting the Irish, Bran tells the Welsh survivors of the battle to bury his head at the site of modern London, where it protects the island until disinterred later by King Arthur. Caradoc, also called Caradoc Vreichvras (Caradoc Strongarm), is an ancestor of the kings of Gwent (part of Wales). He is also known as a knight of Arthur's Roundtable. Taliesin is a great poet of Celtic Britain. Tanith is an ancient goddess of Carthage. Her name has also been used for several fantasy literary characters.

6. Who was the Roman goddess of the dawn, who shares a name with a Disney animated princess?

From Quiz Lesser Gods

Answer: Aurora

This name was shared by the princess in Disney's "Sleeping Beauty". Ovid described this goddess as being forever young. Vesta, Minerva, and Juno are all other goddesses of the Romans.

7. The kelpie is a water spirit which sometimes appears in human form but is most often seen as which animal?

From Quiz Myths and Legends of Scotland

Answer: Horse

Not to be confused with the Australian dog of the same name, the mythical kelpie is believed to inhabit many of the rivers and lochs of Scotland. It normally appears as a white horse and anyone who rides on it is doomed to die by drowning. The giveaway is that its mane continues to be wet, even when the rest of the horse is dry. Although it can take human form, the kelpie continues to have hooves, another sign of its origins.

8. Genies or jinn feature prominently in Islamic lore where they are said to be made of what?

From Quiz Genie Myths and Lore

Answer: Smokeless fire

Jinn are somewhat demonic creatures with free will. Sometimes the word jinn is interchangeably used with demon. The word jinn loosely means "to hide" referring to the fact that humans cannot see them, but genies can see humans.

9. Known among the people of the US and Canada as Bigfoot or Sasquatch, the name given to this creature by the Lakota Indians in Wisconsin is Chiye-tanka. What does this mean in their language?

From Quiz Giant Apes?

Answer: big elder brother

Often depicted as having dark reddish or dark brown hair, Bigfoot is also notable for its large eyes, well-developed supraorbital ridges and massive forehead. Footprints, left by this breather, are 60 cm long and 20 cm wide.

10. The Australian Aboriginals have many myths and legends known as the dreamtime. What is the mythological creature that lurks in swamps?

From Quiz A World Full of Myths

Answer: Bunyip

The Australian Aboriginals considered the bunyip an evil creature that lived in waterways, swamps, lakes and the like. The bunyip made terrible, frightening howls and would lay in wait for humans and animals to come too close to the water and then they would jump out and eat them. The Aboriginals avoided any water place where they thought a bunyip might be. There is some evidence that these creatures may have existed but most Australians believe it to be a myth.

11. Chantico was the Aztec goddess of fires in the family home and what other terrestrial source of extreme heat?

From Quiz C'mon Baby, Light My Fire!

Answer: Volcanoes

Like a lot of mythical beings, Chantico had to pull double duty. She was the Aztec goddess of fires in the family home and of volcanoes. Aztec men would often pray to her before going into battle, so that upon their return they would still find their home fires burning. Chantico once angered the fertility god, Tonacatecuhtli, as she ate fish with paprika. The use of the spice was not allowed to break fasting rituals, and she was turned into a dog. This question was created by Phoenix Rising member zonko.

12. One story tells of how the god Susano offers his help to an elderly couple on Earth who are distraught at having to sacrifice their daughter to a fearsome dragon called Yamata-no-Orochi. How does Susano defeat this dragon?

From Quiz Japanese Mythology - Gods to Men

Answer: He gets it drunk on sake

As mentioned in my previous quiz ("Japanese Mythology - The Creation"), there is much variation between sources. While some say that Susano was banished to the Underworld by his sister Amaterasu (goddess of the Sun), others say that Susano was simply banished from heaven and lived for a while on Earth. It was shortly after his banishment that Susano encountered the elderly couple, who told him that they once had eight daughters. Seven had been devoured by the dragon, Yamata-no-Orochi, and this serpent was soon to return to claim their eighth and final daughter, Kushinada-hime. Susano agreed to help in return for Kushinada-hime's hand in marriage, which was granted. The elderly couple brewed a strong sake on the orders of Susano, and the group waited for the dragon to arrive and devour the sake (according to Japanese mythology, no serpent can resist sake!). Once the inebriated dragon had collapsed, Susano cut him to pieces with his sword, and the blood which flowed turned the water of the Hii River red. This tale is similar in many ways to the story of Perseus and Andromeda in Greek mythology, though, granted, the idea of saving a damsel in distress from a monster is not unique to this story. Perhaps more uniquely similar is the story of how King Lludd of Britain filled a pit with mead in order to subdue the white dragon and the red dragon, whose war had caused much pain and suffering. Another time when alcohol came to the rescue in mythology is when the goddess of war and destruction in Egyptian mythology - Sekhmet - mistook beer for blood and became drunk, turning her into the more pacified deity, Hathor.

13. As told in Japanese mythology, the universe existed as a shapeless chaos of particles. How did heaven and Earth first become established?

From Quiz Japanese Mythology - The Creation

Answer: Heavy particles sunk to form Earth, while lighter particles stayed on top to form the heavens

As is often the case in creation myths, there was no initial order to the universe in Japanese mythology. The stories of the beginning of the universe in this culture are ambiguous and inconsistent, much like Egyptian mythology (and to a lesser extent Norse and Greek mythology). Nevertheless, the idea of heavy particles forming the Earth and light particles forming the sky/heaven are often included in the re-tellings of Japan's mythology, and these are sometimes linked to Yin and Yang respectively, thus highlighting the influence of Shintoism on what were originally folktales used to explain nature.

14. Who was the Hawai'ian god who made the first man in his image?

From Quiz Hawai'ian Mythology

Answer: Kane

Kane was the creator. In some versions Kane alone breathed life into the first man and in others it was three gods together, but man was made in Kane's image. He was one of the more important gods.

15. What is the Japanese word for "God"?

From Quiz Gods and Goddesses of Japanese Myth

Answer: Kami

"Kami" or "Gami" literally means God, deity, spirit. "Shinigami" means Death God or Soul Reaper as in "Bleach" manga. As for "Tenshi", it means angel. "Tianzhu" is the Chinese word for God.

16. Which ancient Greek beast was described as being a large bird with the head of a woman?

From Quiz Outstanding Ovarian Ogres of Old

Answer: Harpy

The Harpy was believed to look like a large bird, complete with claws, feathers, and wings but also had the head of an old woman. Their feathers could not be pierced by a man-made arrow and served as a coat of armor. While flying, the Harpy would swoop down and snatch up humans and carry them to the underworld. It was believed that you could tell when a Harpy had been near because of the stench they left behind.

17. Quetzalcoatl is probably the best known of all Mesoamerican deities. He is known as the feather serpent, meaning he is part bird and part snake. What type of animal is the quetzal, for which he is named?

From Quiz The Animals of Mesoamerican Myths

Answer: A long-tailed bird

Though originally a Nahuatl word, quetzal has come to be the common name of these beautiful colorful birds. Because they were held sacred to Quetzalcoatl their long tail feathers were used as a currency. Quetzalcoatl was originally believed to be a god of the Teotihuacan culture or possibly the Toltec empire. He was also related to the Mayan Kulkulcan. Since the Aztecs acquired much of their myths and culture from the Toltecs, he also became a major Aztec god.

18. The "Seven Lucky Gods" are collectively called by what name in Japanese?

From Quiz Japanese Mythology II

Answer: Shichifukujin

"Bosatu and Butsu" are sacred beings specifically from Japanese Buddhism, whereas Shinto gods, or kami, are from native Japanese mythology. Amatsukami are "heavenly kami" which rule over the celestial realms, while the "earthy kami", or kunitsukami, guard the country and the emperors. In Shinto mythology "obake" are angry ghosts who are vengeful spirits. It is believed that they were wronged in their lives or died in dishonorable circumstances.

19. Number ten of the Top Ten Australian Mythical Creatures and Cryptids: The Bunyip. What do they supposedly eat?

From Quiz Australian Mythical Creatures and Cryptids

Answer: Animals, young children and women

One thing I find a little odd about the majority of Bunyip sightings, is that they were spotted by men walking home late at night (or early in the morning) from parties. These men were all quite drunk...

20. The Loch Ness Monster has fascinated cryptozoologists for most of the 20th century, though is seems far from likely that it is the same creature seen by St. Columba in the 6th Century A.D. What type of dinosaur is Nessie most commonly depicted as?

From Quiz Wee Scottish Beasties

Answer: Plesiosaur

The Plesiosaur is the only one of the options that would have spent its time in the water. Nessie also has a sister that resides in Loch Morar, called Morag. Theories on how they manage to keep the race of plesiosaurs going include a tunnel connecting the two lochs. Some of the more obscure appearances of the monster include the TV cartoon "The Family-Ness" and a "Nessie card" in the computer game "Dr. Drago's Madcap Chase."

21. Henwen is the name of a goddess who was pursued by King Arthur, who aimed to kill her after hearing a prophecy that she would lead to the destruction of Britain. In what form is Henwen usually depicted?

From Quiz The Tales of Wales

Answer: A pig

Henwen is known for her strange offspring, giving birth to a grain of barley, three grains of wheat, a wolf pup, and three bees. The wheat and the bees were left in Gwent, and are said to be the reason for this county's fine honey and wheat.

22. Zosim is a Slavic god, patron to which creature?

From Quiz Slavic and Russian Mythology, Legend, and Folklore

Answer: bees

Not only is Zosim the Slavic god of bees, but he is also the god of mead.

23. The story of Layla and Majnun (also known as Qays) took place in what part of the world?

From Quiz Layla and Majnun

Answer: The Middle East

Most sources agree Layla and Majnun lived on the Arabian Peninsula in the Umayyad era during the seventh century. Several versions (some say over a hundred) of the story were adapted into tales, legends, and songs by Persian and Turkish writers. The best known version was written by the twelfth century Persian poet, Nizami Ganjavi, who consolidated all of the stories into one poem.

24. The Kamba story, "The Brothers, Sun and Moon, and the Pretty Girl", speaks of how the Sun came to shine so bright. Why, according to the tale, is Sun so much brighter than Moon?

From Quiz Kenya: Her Tales and Her People

Answer: Sun braved terrifying sights to woo a pretty bride, while Moon ran away.

In this narrative, Moon is the older brother, and he loves the pretty girl very much. However, the pretty girl lives deep in a frightening jungle, and Moon runs away in fear from illusions rising from an enchanted pond. Sun stands his ground, and the pretty girl claims him for her husband with her father's blessing. When Sun returns home with his new bride, Moon tries to kill him out of jealousy. Their mother stops him, however, and curses him to be forever smaller, dimmer, and afraid to come out in daytime.

25. Why did Prince Madoc want to leave Wales?

From Quiz Prince Madoc

Answer: Civil unrest

After the death of his Father in 1169 Prince Madoc became entangled in the fight for power. Being a peaceful man he decided to set sail for more peaceful shores.

26. According to most surviving sources, this deity was the most powerful figure in pre-Christian Russian mythology.

From Quiz Some Folks from Russian Folklore

Answer: Perun

Perun was the embodiment of thunder and war. Some evidence suggests that Svagrog, the keeper of fire, was actually head of the Russian pantheon, but this is not reflected in the "Primary Chronicle".

27. He's a tree-dweller who never shaves and who loves a good smoke on his everlasting cigar.

From Quiz Filipino Mythical Creatures

Answer: kapre

I wonder if the kapre has ever heard of lung cancer? He's usually depicted as a hairy naked giant sitting in a tree smoking a cigar. In fact the first indication that he's in the neighborhood is the glowing tip of his cigar. That, and the clouds of smoke arising from it!

28. The 'Poem of Aqhat' is an epic poem from what ancient culture of the Middle East?

From Quiz Ancient 'Poem of Aqhat'

Answer: Canaanite

The ancient Canaanites are also known to us today as the Phoenicians or Phoenikes (a Greek word meaning purple/red). The Phoenicians were a seagoing people who created settlements in various places around the Mediterranean, most famously in Carthage. The Romans transliterated the word Phoenikes to poenus, from whence we get the term 'punic' to describe the Carthage!

29. What is the name of God in Lithuanian?

From Quiz Myths and Legends of Lithuania

Answer: Dievas

'Dievas' has a common root with the words of this meaning in many IndoEuropean languages. For example, latin 'deos', or 'devi' in Hindi. The goddess would be 'Deive'.

30. In respect to Mayan mythology, what is the Popol Vuh?

From Quiz Mayan Myth

Answer: Sacred text

Written in the sixteenth century, the "Popol Vuh" is a narrative that recounts the history and the mythology of the Quiche (also recorded as K'iche') peoples, Mayas that inhabited the areas around Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, El Salvador and the areas of Mexico encompassed by the states of Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatan and Quintana Roo. Apart from their natural history the "Popol Vuh" details the creation of the world and the issues that the gods had in creating human beings - they stumbled on maize after their efforts with mud and wood failed. It also chronicles the lives of their hero twins Hunahpu and Xbalanque, two important cultural figures of the Maya. What could be seen as an equivalent of the Yucatan Maya was the "Chilam Balam" (Secrets of the Soothsayers), which was written during the 1600s.

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