Myths in different cultural regions

1. Myths in different cultural regions

2. What are Myths?The word itself comes from the Greek "mythos" which originally meant "speech" or "discourse" but which later came to mean "fable" or "legend".Defined as a story of forgotten or vague origin, basically religious or supernatural in nature.What is theimportance of Native American Mythology?The traditions and history of Native Americans are embodied in their myths and rituals.Sometimes myths are the only remnants of a particularnative culture.

3. Creation myths: why are they so important? • Explain the workings of the natural world • Support and validate social customs • Guide people through the trials of living • Instill a sense of the mystery of the universe and attempts to explain that mystery

4. Iroquois Creation Myth

5. Navajo Creation Myth • First Man • First Woman • Salt Women • Fire God • Coyote • Begochiddy

6. Begochiddy planted an enormous seed which grew into a tall, hollow reed The Fourth World was not as beautiful as the Third, butit became the home of the Navajos

7. What are the differences between the myths? Iroquois Navajo Great plains Six beings, only 3 humans Plants and crops 4 worlds Almost done • Eastern woodlands • Sky people • Animals • 2 worlds • Made from mug

8. What are the similarities between the myths? Iroquois Navajo The creators are immortals Sun, Moon and stars were made by them In harmony with nature Had to travel a lot to find the final home

9. Conclusion • Native Americanmyths often emphasize a strong spiritual bond between the creator, humanity and the natural world. It’s the duty of humanity to maintain a balance between these entities. • "It is in the nature of humans to wonder about the unknown and to search for answers".

10. Thank you for your attention!