Native American Myth
Creation myths are a way of explaining the once unexplainable. Due to major advancements in technology, differing views are being developed at a rapid . However, throughout documented history, a logical justification explaining the world and all its wonders were nothing more than a distant dream. With that in mind, many groups developed myths to incorporate their thoughts and ideas in explaining the world around them. Native American myths are no exception to the rule. When compared to one another, Native American creation myths share a great deal of similarities and differences.
Geographical location is reason for many differences in Native American myth. Its is commonly observed that tribes which are located nearer to the ocean are more prone to incorporate the ocean into their story. Caddo legend describes corn as being the designated holy food. Many tribes share this belief, however those tribes living in differing agricultural environments would not necessarily share the same ideals. Taking in to account the stories read, Hopi myth is far more descript than its cohorts. Hopi legend sheds light on differing race, language, and even explains the cause for bickering. Caddo legend does not necessarily deal with the initial creation of life, but its rebirth. Hopi myth puts notable emphasis on the sacred feminine by creating the woman first and employing the use of goddesses as opposed to god’s.
Conflict is a quality which remains static in all observed stories. The conflict between humans justly defines the cause for good and bad. Whereas the conflict between the humans and god’s defines what is acceptable behavior, and what is not. All stories incorporate the discontent of their respective god’s, followed by a catastrophic event. After a period of rebirth, the remaining people and future generations are left with the threat of continued chaos, if the the god’s were to find themselves further perturbed. Conveniently, all remnants of the god’s existence vanishes along with them, giving their people no reason to quest for a, “hollow cane reaching to the clouds” or a, “kiva with a turtle-shell rattle attached to the ladder.”
These myths exist for the purpose of explaining the unknown, and giving meaning to life as it is perceived. Defined in the meaning of their words are clues of their culture. The struggles faced and future hopes are each presented in a fashion which is relatable to each group, and are demonstrative of their values. Native American myth is teeming with similar and differences when compared to each other, and these comparisons offer a unique glimpse into the soul of their culture.
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