Demigods – Attempt at Scientific Explanation.
5 Pages Posted: 8 Oct 2018
Date Written: September 22, 2018
Abstract
This text presents speculations concerning a possible historical connection between present day genetic discoveries and classic Greek mythology. Its main interest could lie in suggesting using mythology to guide present day research. Ancient texts could be read under a new light, trying to find new directions for research.
In the present text, the hypothesis will be explored that Demigods represent, from the mythological standpoint, the result of interbreeding between the ancestors of modern humans and Neandertals. The hypotheses now presented provide an explanation for the fact that Eurasian traditions present beings of mixed human/ divine origin, often in the context of families. Oral transmission of stories concerning these robust humans, now extinct, may have happened. Terrestrial interbreeding between ancestors of modern humans and Neandertals would appear to be an explanation in accordance with the present state of knowledge.
Keywords: Demigods, Neandertals, Homo sapiens
JEL Classification: Y8
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation