What are the mythological and epic elements in John Barth's novel 'Lost in the Funhouse' ?

Barth seems to have respect for mythology and the core foundations of modern storytelling. This is most obvious in the pieces “Menelaiad” and “Anonymiad” when Barth use characters from Greek mythology and tells their stories. He adds his own creative angle but remains true to the established elements of the story lines.

In less obvious ways, however, Barth implements mythology in the 20th century stories too. Ambrose deals with issues of jealousy and covetousness in regards to his brother, much like the story of Romulus and Remus from Roman mythology. The Oedipus complex is shown in Ambrose’s infant relationship with his mother; His birth has driven his father away and as a result, Ambrose is the sole recipient of his mother’s attention and suckling. Menelaus’ disbelief Helen can truly love him when there are so many others more worthy than he is reflected in Ambrose’s own confusion about the interest Magda seems to show in him. Ambrose knows his brother is the more logical choice for her affections but still senses she may actually be interested in him. Barth uses mythology in a savvy way to show although technology has advanced in writing and people have evolved, many of the same general principles of storytelling and human nature exist.