Das Mythem der Verlorenen Sonnenstrahlen und das Motiv des Rinderdiebstahls

Abstract

This paper explores the relations between the mythological figures of the Rigvedic Saramā, Greek Hermes, Odysseus and Herakles. Core features of their respective mythological and literary narratives seem to suggest a common origin. Most intriguing is the fact that all four appear in connection to the “cattle of the sun” motif. In order to compare the relevant myths, an approach is chosen that allows to differentiate between the relevant mytheme and the motif.