Myths in ancient age in the light of written sources

Myths, belonging to ancient peoples, try to explain the universe and the existence of the gods. The main actor of myths are generally gods or people with supernatural powers. Myths are also narrative of the events that aimed to clarify the events that deeply affected society. The question of what the myths can not be answered with ignoring the fact of having a psychological structure of society, aspirations and fears. In the light of these facts, we tried to evaluate the facts can be reached on ancient society from ancient myths in this study, entitled "Myths in Ancient Age in the Light of Written Sources". In this context, the basic geography of thesis is considered starting from Mesopotamia, the cradle of civilization, progressing on the path Anatolia and West. This does not mean the negation of the importance of other ancient civilizations. Due to shortness of time and space Mesopotamia-Anatolia- West sequencing is fallowed, even the limitations were made within mentioned regions. The thesis is discussed in 5 chapters, primarily information about myths provided, afterwards the myths written by Mesopotamian cultures were examined. In the following sections, Anatolian myths are examined, and then the Greek and Roman myths is given. In the latest chapter, comparisons made to demonstrate the possible interaction between cultures, also parallels and differences between the mentioned regions were evaluated. In the most recent chapter, an assessment between the holy book and myths was attempted. In detail, ancient myths reflects the community that it came out in many aspects and it is not possible to separate myths from cultural atmosphere of the society. Myths, should not be considered as invented story, on the contrary the possible facts under this literary expression should be tried to evaluate. Other than that, it is revealed that ancient societies affect each other and this interaction showed itself clearly in myths even within the limited means of communication. Key Words: Myth, Mesopotamia, Anatolia, Greece, Rome.