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The scientific origins of the Minotaur - Matt Kaplan

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The myth of the Minotaur tells the story of an enraged beast forever wandering the corridors of a damp labyrinth, filled with a rage so intense that its deafening roar shakes the earth. But is this story just fiction, or an attempt of our early ancestors to make sense of the natural world? Matt Kaplan examines the myth for its scientific roots.

Additional Resources for you to Explore

Want more about Greek Mythological creatures and myths? Watch Origins of the Minotaur, and The Story of Medusa on History.com. “Why do we invent monsters?” may answer some of those questions about why we find these monster myths so scary, but fascinating and useful to us in some way at the same time.

Love monsters, things that go bump in the night, and the myths behind them? Read The Science of Monsters by Matt Kaplan. Matt is a monster myth buff and science journalist. The book is filled with monster research, history, and lore! If you like that book, try the Science of the Magical: From Love Potions to Superpowers! Is there a link between science and magic? What do you think?

Do the Eyeshadow of Endurance and the Apple of Eden sound enthralling? Visit Matt Kaplan’s and Charlie Hsu’s site called: A Matter of Fact and Fiction and find out more! Finally, listen to this interview on NPR: Medusa’s Gaze and Vampire’s Bite as Matt discusses more mythical monsters!

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Matt Kaplan
  • Director Outis
  • Script Editor Amy Adkins
  • Sound Designer Cem Misirlioglu
  • Narrator Matt Kaplan

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