Jeffrey R Gudzune's Blog
Posted by Jeffrey R Gudzune
There are many creation stories that tell of how the world began. While it would be impossible to dedicate time to to all of the stories in a single article, it is best to start with some of the more common themes. In the coming weeks we will look at more fascinating creation stories and the tribes that generated them.
Posted by Jeffrey R Gudzune
When one thinks of Native American life there are several images that come to mind--bows and arrows, brave warriors on horseback, and the totem pole. Such an image comes from a lack of direct historical knowledge, but has also been perpetuated by years of stereotypes assigned to America's first people. In truth, the totem pole was a cultural trait unique to the northwestern coastal tribes. However, it has evolved into a universally recognized image due to a number of factors. The intricate detail of the carvings and the fluid nature of the totem pole itself, which has undergone many updates.
Posted by Jeffrey R Gudzune
This week we looked at three more trickster figures and their various meanings. While this entry does not represent the end of additional trickster stories, for now we will be moving on to other important symbols of native relgion.
Posted by Jeffrey R Gudzune
This week we started to explore the various trickster stories that are an integral part of Native American creation mythology. While space only permitted a brief look at two of the more prominant tricksters, the raven and the coyote, the coming weeks will explore other important trickster figures. Why so much focus on this one aspect of native religion? It is important to fully grasp the trickster tradition and how it influenced native development.
Posted by Jeffrey R Gudzune
In the coming weeks we will give greater detail to the specifics of native reglion and the indivdual practices of the tribes of North America. At the heart of this exploration willl be the ever present reminder that though the various tribes have spread themselves throughout the continent, there is a great deal in common in their own individual mythos. The difference is of course in the details.
