Mythology and Medieval Myth

 The Tojan War has gained much attention over the years, and I myself am a long time fan of the Siege of Troy, and very familiar with it's stories. But even for those of you who are not, who hasn't heard of the Trojan horse and it's secret attack on Troy? Or for that matter, who hasn't heard of the duel between Achilles and Troy? Or the love affair of Priam and Helen? However, what is lesser well known is the heavy influence of these stories in the Medieval mind. Much Medieval art depicts Greek soldiers in Medieval Armour, and people in Medieval times, in fact thought they were descendants of characters from the stories.
   But what most people do not realize is the strong connection between The Trojan War and the Crusades. Both were wars in which western armies invaded eastern lands, both were heavily fought around beaches, both were greatly made up of sieges, and both have their stories of cruelty and chivalry.
 The Greek myths no doubt have inspired many religions and other stories, but people in Medieval times took ideas from the Greeks and Christianized them. Augustine did this with Plato. Aquinas did it with Aristotle. Other Christians have done it with the Greek myths. For since the time of at last the 4th century, Christians have believed that taking dominion is important, and that our world is full of many beauties and  gifts that can be used for Christ, even if once by pagans. Christians have done this with Christmas and Easter both, and other days once celebrated by pagans. Just as the Hebrews took dominion over pagan lands and used them for their people, so we as Christians should be able to take over the arts and literature and put it forward for Christ. For there are many things in the world like Greek Philosophy and Myths that we may use as Christians, and put towards the glory of Christ.
 Whether or not people of Medieval Times were descendants from the Trojan myths, I leave to debate. But let me say this, and that is, that there are more truth in many myths and legends than is always admitted.