Cultural images and myths are nothing new, of course. Every culture has them. They provide a kind of glue that simultaneously helps to bond disparate people together into a unified whole and also helps explain and give order to a sometimes chaotic and confusing world. And Luce was hardly the first or only promoter of contrived or idealistic images.
The idealistic image of a "hero" goes as far back in time as civilization itself, because each civilization and culture needed role models to teach their young what they should aspire to become. During the Depression and World War II, Norman Rockwell's images of American home life -- and his "Four Freedoms" series in particular -- helped remind weary Americans what they were fighting to preserve -- and raised millions in war bonds.
A Cultural Myth are traditional stories arising from folktales and oral storytelling with multiple meanings as well as interpretations assigned to it. Such myths have long lasting effects in the lives of people that can shape their behavior, language, food habits etc. Myths can be true or false depending on its historical evidences set in the geographical proximity of an area.
Different races and societies can have diverse myths that play a significant role in shaping their culture.
Some Examples:
Racial Stereotyping- The prejudice revolving around a particular race leads to their subjugation. Black Americans were considered savages for a long time due to their racial identity.
Cultural Superiority- The native Americans in the South were considered inferior due to their traditional values and life in the wilderness. They have portrayed as barbaric and cavemen who were uncivilized. The portrayal of cowboys in movies can be a good example.
