Everyone, even the most stoic person, feels emotion; it's an important part of what makes a human human. So it's not surprising that the myths, which evolved to help the ancients understand themselves and their place in the world, covered the wide range of human emotions.

In the ancient world, the gods and goddesses were superior beings who wielded powers beyond human ability (and sometimes comprehension). But even the gods, in all their glory, could not escape emotion. Classical deities reached extreme levels of emotion far beyond the range of ordinary human feelings. If you've ever been in the grip of overwhelming feelings, you'll relate to myths in which mortals and immortals alike allow an emotion to take control. As in real life, this situation sometimes ends in disaster; at other times, it works out for the best.

Myths' endings are often unpredictable, so if you are expecting to learn a lesson about the destructive power of jealousy or the brighter side of sadness, think again. Although myths involve emotion as part of human (and divine) nature, rarely do they offer lessons or teach morals. Lessons aren't spelled out as they are in fables. Instead, myths provide insights into human nature and human experience.