Flood Myths

The worldwide story-type in which a flood destroys a wicked generation and a chosen survivor renews humanity.

Core Themes

• Divine judgement followed by a covenant or promise not to destroy again.
• A single family or pair saved by warning, ark, boat or raft.

Notable Examples

• The Sumerian Ziusudra, the Akkadian Atrahasis and Utnapishtim, Noah of Genesis, Manu of India.
• Deucalion and Pyrrha of Greece, and the flood chapters of the Popol Vuh.

Related Concepts & Sources

Atrahasis, Divine Punishment, Creation (renewal)