Common Myths about History
CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT
12/31/2025
WARM-UP
Answer quickly. No right or wrong answers.
Do you enjoy learning about history?
Have you ever believed something historical that turned out to be false?
Do you think movies and books change how we see history?
VOCABULARY
Essential (A1–B1)
myth – something many people believe that is not true
Example: The idea that ninjas always wore black is a myth.
warrior – a soldier or fighter, especially in the past
Example: The story talks about a brave warrior.
general – an important military leader
Example: Napoleon was a famous general.
history – the study of past events
Example: I enjoy reading about history.
believe – to think something is true
Example: Many people believe this story.
Developed (B2–C2)
espionage – secret activities to get information
Example: Ninjas were skilled in espionage.
martial art – a fighting sport or system
Example: Some martial arts come from Japan.
blend – to match or fit into surroundings
Example: Ninjas dressed normally to blend in.
average – normal or typical
Example: Napoleon was an average height.
misconception – a belief that is incorrect
Example: Many myths come from historical misconceptions.
READING
Introduction
This article explores common history myths that many people still believe today. It explains where these ideas came from and why they are not accurate.
(Read at your level. Do not translate every word.)
Article (All Levels)
Many people believe historical stories that are not true. These stories are called myths.
For example, people think ninjas always wore black clothes. However, real ninjas dressed like normal people so they could blend in.
Another common myth is that Napoleon Bonaparte was very short. In reality, he was about average height for his time.
Developed Article (B1–C2)
Historical myths often come from misunderstandings, translation errors, or popular culture. Ninjas were skilled in espionage and martial arts, but their black outfits come from theater, not history.
Napoleon’s height was recorded using French measurements, which caused confusion in other countries. This led to a lasting misconception about his appearance.
Experts explain that history is often simplified, which makes myths easier to spread and harder to correct.
COMPREHENSION CHECK
Answer based on your level.
A1–A2
What is a myth?
Why didn’t ninjas wear black clothes?
Was Napoleon very short?
B1–B2
Why did ninjas dress like normal people?
How did measurement systems affect Napoleon’s image?
What causes historical myths to spread?
C1–C2
How do cultural sources contribute to historical misconceptions?
Why are myths difficult to correct once established?
How does simplified storytelling affect historical accuracy?
SPEAKING
A1–A2 — Foundation
Tip: Use sentence starters for all personal questions.
(Answer + 1 reason)
“I think ___ because ___.”
“I usually ___.”
“This is interesting because ___.”
“I feel ___ about this.”
Personal Questions
Do you like history?
Have you heard any history myths?
Do you believe stories easily?
Did you learn history at school?
Do movies change history?
Do you trust textbooks?
Is history important?
Do myths confuse people?
Do you like learning facts?
Have you believed a myth before?
Do you enjoy documentaries?
Is it easy to spread false ideas?
Do people check facts enough?
Is history sometimes boring?
Would you like to learn more history?
B1–B2 — Expansion
Tip: Use sentence starters for all personal questions.
(Answer + reason + 2 details)
“I believe ___ because ___; for example, ___ and ___.”
“One reason is ___.”
“This leads to ___.”
Personal Questions
Why do historical myths last so long?
How do movies influence historical knowledge?
Should schools teach myth correction?
Why do people enjoy simplified history?
How does culture shape historical memory?
Can myths be harmful?
Do you question historical stories?
How do translations affect history?
Are myths ever useful?
Should historians challenge popular beliefs?
How does storytelling affect truth?
Why are some myths global?
How can people verify historical facts?
Do you trust online history sources?
Can education reduce misconceptions?
C1–C2 — Depth & Reflection
Tip: Use sentence starters for all personal questions.
(Reason + multiple details + consequence or reflection)
“I believe ___ because ___; for instance, ___, ___, and ___; as a result, ___.”
“One major concern is ___.”
“In the long term, this could ___.”
Personal Questions
How do history myths reflect cultural identity?
Should governments address historical misinformation?
How do myths influence national narratives?
Is historical accuracy more important than engagement?
How should educators balance storytelling and truth?
Can myths distort collective memory?
What role does media play in shaping history?
Are some myths intentionally preserved?
How does misinformation compare across history and modern media?
Should historians actively fight popular myths?
How do myths affect political understanding?
Can correcting myths change societal values?
How does repetition reinforce false beliefs?
What responsibility do individuals have to verify history?
How should future generations learn about the past?
