What distinguishes history from myth in cultural records?

The distinction between history and myth primarily lies in the basis of verifiable facts that underpin historical events. History is constructed from evidence that can be substantiated through documentation, archaeological findings, and firsthand accounts. This reliance on factual accuracy allows history to be analyzed, debated, and rewritten as new evidence emerges.

In contrast, myth serves different purposes within a culture, often embodying the beliefs, values, and moral lessons of a community without the stringent requirement for factual verification. Myths may convey truths of a more symbolic or thematic nature, aiming to explain natural phenomena or human experiences rather than record events as they occurred.

The other options highlight characteristics of myths or misunderstandings about the nature of history. While myths can be structured narratives, they are not exclusively oral traditions; many myths have written forms. Moreover, history does not focus on future events but rather on the analysis and interpretation of past occurrences.