Native American Literature

Folklore Each culture has its own stories that are passed on by word of mouth (urban legends, Cinderella). These stories are often told as: entertainment historical accounts creation stories religious stories education

Oral Tradition Folklore changes with each telling storyteller adds a bit of himself or herself to it. To the Native Americans, the stories were considered to be true accounts of the past.

Myths in Culture Myths embody the basic beliefs and values of the culture These beliefs and values can be roughly organized in three areas: the nature of the physical world social order and appropriate behavior human nature and the problem of good and evil.

The Role of Myths and Traditions give people a sense of order and identity to heal the sick to ensure a plentiful supply of food to initiate young people into adulthood to teach moral lessons

Myths an anonymous traditional story that relies on the supernatural explain why the world is the way it is. Creation myth—tells how the world and human life came to exist. Origin myth—explains how natural phenomena such as the stars, moon and mountains came to be or why a society has certain beliefs and customs.

Myths Cont’d Trickster tale—an animal character with two sides: They are rebels who defy authority sometimes creating trouble or chaos. They are also curious, clever, and creative figures who can unexpectedly reveal wisdom. In Native American tales, often the mink, coyote, or raven.

Totem Poles The Totem—in many Native American nations, people believed they descended from a particular animal or other natural object. These animals were then honored by the clan in stories and totem poles (each totem pole tells stories).