1. In the Beginning Native American Mythology

2.  Native American is a term that can be applied to dozens of distinct early American cultures (e.g. Aztec, Mayan, Olmec).

3.  Centuries before the first Europeans arrived in North America, Native Americans had established hundreds of nations, each with a unique culture and heritage. History

4. History  Each nation had its own oral history– stories that were passed from one generation to the next and retold in various ceremonies.

5. History  One important part of this oral history was the Native American myth.

6. What is a myth?  an anonymous, traditional story that relies on the supernatural to explain a natural phenomenon, an aspect of human behavior, or a mystery of the universe

7. Types of Myths  Origin Myths- explain how natural phenomena, such as the stars, moon, and mountains, came to be or why a society has certain beliefs and customs

8. Types of Myths  Creation Myths- tell how the world and human life came to exist *Qualities of creation and origin myths can appear in the same story.

9. Characteristics of Myths  Emphasize strong spiritual bond between the Creator, humanity, and the entire natural world

10. Characteristics of Myths  Suggest that it is the duty of humanity to maintain a balance within their natural world

11. Characteristics of Myths  In many cultures, each family group, or clan, believed it descended from a particular animal or other natural object, called a totem.

12. Characteristics of Myths  The totem was responsible for guarding, helping, and protecting the clan’s members.

13. Characteristics of Myths  The trickster is an animal character that has two sides to its character.  Tricksters are rebels who defy authority and create chaos.

14. Characteristics of Myths  Tricksters are also curious and creative and may unexpectedly reveal wisdom.  Often depicted as a coyote, raven, or mink