Native Native American American LiteraturLiterature:e: Creation Creation MythsMyths

Myth: Myth: Definition 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.

Myth: Characteristics 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.

Oral traditionOral tradition •Native American myths originated as oral tradition: stories passed down verbally.

Oral Tradition. . .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.

Creation mythsCreation myths •Explain how the universe, the earth, and life on earth began.

1. To instill awe and wonder about the natural world.

2. Explain the workings of the natural world.

3. To support customs and traditions.

4. Guide people through the trials of living.

Creation Myths:

More About Native American More About Native American LiteratureLiterature• 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

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…

Your Homework tonightYour 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