Structure and History in Greek Mythology and Ritual

Walter Burkert's Structure and History in Greek Mythology and Ritual examines recurring patterns in Greek myths and their connection to ritual practices. Burkert proposes that these patterns, which he calls "programs of action," are rooted in basic biological or cultural sequences.1

For example, the "girl's tragedy" myth pattern, involving a girl leaving home, seclusion, rape by a god, tribulation, and eventual rescue and assured future for her son, reflects the biological sequence of puberty, defloration, pregnancy, and delivery. Similarly, myths about scapegoating are linked to the survival instinct, stemming from real situations where sacrificing one member protected the group. Burkert argues that the persistence of these patterns is due to their grounding in fundamental human needs, particularly survival.1