Question

Why is it important to understand the mythology of a culture to fully understand the literature of a culture?

Answer 1

Answer:

Myths, stories, legends, folklore, tall tales give valuable insights into how people perceive and think about their world. ... 

Answer 2

Ultimately, studying mythology gives us context into our world, our literature, and our own beliefs. The significance of these myths should not be overlooked, and even a foundational level of study will prove beneficial.

(The difference)
Literature is a body of written works of language, period or culture. ... The typical mythology is the explanation of the universe and its ethology.