Jūra mitų kultūroje: jūrų mitologijos metmenys: studijų knyga

Abstract

The human saw the sea for the first time thousands of years ago. This way, impressive and complex communication between the human and the sea began. This communication was driven by an inspiration to create, following the spirit of freedom. A whole culture can be based on the creativity of one individual. Culture (Lat. cultura) means development, improvement, worship. The communication between the human and the sea is characterized by a technological, recreational, sportive, ecological, medical, ethical, aesthetical, mythological, religious, psychological, and educational culture. The sea has become an integral and peculiar part of the culture of mankind. It is not only water but also a holistic cultural structure. From the erspective of the history of mankind, the sea is important not only at an economic level. Its manifestations are also evident in maritime texts, songs, plays, and imagery. Maritime symbols are universal signs, which help human beings understand themselves and their own place in life on an individual level. Almost all areas of life are related to the sea. This book, a collection of studies, highlights the features of cultural and mythological significance of the sea in respect of enrichment of personality. The structure of the book reflects cultural symbols of the Mediterranean Sea, Christian and scientific maritime mythology, certain moments from social maritime mythology, and the approach of maritime students towards maritime symbols.