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Native American Literature: Creation Myths
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Myth: Definition A traditional story, passed down through generations, that explains why the world is the way it is. Events usually result from the actions of supernatural beings.
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Myth: Characteristics
Contain supernatural elements Often explain the unexplainable Have also been told in order to teach a moral lesson. All cultures have myths, though often do not see their stories myth but as fact. What is supernatural? Give me an example. Why are myths important to a culture?
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Oral tradition Native American myths originated as oral tradition: stories passed down verbally.
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Oral Tradition. . . Native American creation myths were not written down until just a few hundred years ago. It was passed down by storytelling and performances. Much of the flavor gets lost in the writing down, but writing helps to preserve the myths for future generations in ways that retelling cannot. To transition to the next slide, ask What is a myth?
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Creation myths Explain how the universe, the earth, and life on earth began.
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Creation Myths: To instill awe and wonder about the natural world.
Explain the workings of the natural world. To support customs and traditions. Guide people through the trials of living.
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More About Native American Literature
Oral Traditions Integration of the natural world with the human world No separation of spiritual and physical Importance of ancestors Trixter figure – often a coyote Rich literary tradition – developed mythology Extremely diverse Native American legacy today – Sherman Alexie
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Quick Write What different accounts of creation- biblical, scientific or stories from family or other cultures have you heard or read? Write a brief response to what you believe and how you came to know it…
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Your Homework tonight Directions:
Write an origin myth that is at least one page typed (Double Spaced), 1” margins, 12 pt. Font) or two pages (front and back written) Your myth must include the following elements: Explain the origin of a phenomenon in nature (refer to examples discussed in class) Creation of man, animals, or the earth Must include an Immortal Being
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