American Indian Myths and Mysteries: Beyond Anthropological Theories to the Living Legends and Enigmas of the Original Americans


Book Description

"American Indian Myths and Mysteries" is an authoritative and scrupulously researched account of mythology of the Native American - an all-encompassing collection of American Indian legends, truths, and myths. Although much of this ancient heritage has been lost, a great deal has been saved, and there are men and women alive today who remember the lore of their ancestors. This book divides its chapters into two groupings: the Historical Mysteries and the Mystical Mysteries. Section one deals with the origins of the American Indian, artifacts, megaliths, totems, and lost colonies. Section two deals with ritual ceremonies such as the shaking tent, medicine man magic, secrets of the shamans, and other interesting topics. This volume sheds new light on the motivations of Native Americans when faced with a deluge of European settlers. If you love ancient American history, this volume is a must have.Vincent H. Gaddis, the author, is a former newspaperman, perhaps best known for giving the "Bermuda Triangle" its name. He specializes in exploring the borderland between fact and myth. He has published thousands of articles in hundreds of national periodicals, among them True, Argosy, Saga, and Fate. He is the author of seven books on occult and anthropological puzzles, including "Mysterious Fires and Lights," "Invisible Horizons," and "The Curious World of Twins."




American Indian Myths & Mysteries


Book Description

American Indian Myths and Mysteries is an authoritative and scrupulously researched account of mythology of the native American. Although much of this ancient heritage has been lost, a great deal has been saved and there are men and women alive today who remember th lore of their ancestors.




Mysteries of Native American Myth and Religion


Book Description

Folklorist Gary R. Varner takes a lengthy look at various myths, legends and beliefs of Native Americans in this book. Included are stories and archaeological finds from various lands that suggest cultural contacts between explorers from China, Japan, the Mediterranean and Europe with Native Americans in pre-Columbian times. Native American folklore and myths are examined including the universal legends of the flood and stories of the mysterious god-men such as Quetzalcoatl, Votan and Chinigchinix, who brought the arts, technology and civilization to indigenous cultures. Mysteries of Native American Myth and Religion is a fact-filled, yet fascinating story of the original inhabitants of North and South America. Varner has written several books on folklore and mythology and is a member of the American Folklore Society and the Foundation for Mythological Studies.




American Indian Myths and Legends


Book Description

More than 160 tales from eighty tribal groups present a rich and lively panorama of the Native American mythic heritage. From across the continent comes tales of creation and love; heroes and war; animals, tricksters, and the end of the world. “This fine, valuable new gathering of ... tales is truly alive, mysterious, and wonderful—overflowing, that is, with wonder, mystery and life" (National Book Award Winner Peter Matthiessen). In addition to mining the best folkloric sources of the nineteenth century, the editors have also included a broad selection of contemporary Native American voices.




The Mythology of Native North America


Book Description

Recounts more than seventy Native American myths from a variety of cultures, covering gods, creation, and heroes and heroines, and discusses each myth within its own context, its relationship to other myths, and its place within world mythology.




Imagine Ourselves Richly


Book Description

"This invaluable exploration of mythic narratives helps us uncover our long-repressed values regarding the environment, society, and the spiritual world. Christopher Vecsey examines the Hopi myth of emergence and clan migration, the Ojibwa creation myth, the Iroquois myth of the Confederacy, the Navajo tradition of ritualized medicine, the pan-Indian myths of peyotism's origins, and a contemporary sweat lodge ceremony. The author finds at the heart of these myths a declaration of dependence: of the individual on the community, of the community on nature, and of nature on the powerful world of spirit."-- Back cover.




Texas Indian Myths & Legends


Book Description

Five native nations of Texas come alive in this vividly written book.




Native American Myths & Legends


Book Description

Across the North American continent, Native Americans told their families and friends fabulous tales filled with outlandish characters, heroic feats, and lessons that explained how the world came to be and how individuals should act. Together, these tales highlight the impressive cultural heritage of the original inhabitants of the continent. Included in this collection are more than 50 legends from a range of tribes that span the continent from the Atlantic to the Pacific and from the Rio Grande to the Assiniboine. These fascinating stories are illustrated by the famous photographs of Edward Curtis as well as a number of paintings by travellers seeking to capture the truth and beauty of Native American life.




NATIVE AMERICAN MYTHS


Book Description

* An important book about one of the world's most inspirational yet least-known mythologies, written by an expert in the genre. * One of the most comprehensive collections of its kind. Based on three years' research through hundreds of archives, revealing a treasure trove of material, some never before available to the general UK reader. * Over 100 ancient stories, verse narratives, songs, anecdotes and fragments of wisdom, sourced from 55 different Native American peoples.* Extraordinary allegories that explore universal human concerns, promoting harmony between people and respect for the environment.* Unforgettable characters include the Thunderbirds, Spider Woman, Raven, the Sun, Bear Mother and the Keeper of the Brains of the Dead.* Includes fascinating information about the original Native American storytellers and their diverse cultural backgrounds.




The Myths of the North American Indians


Book Description

Lewis Spence's 'The Myths of the North American Indians' is a comprehensive study of the rich mythology of indigenous peoples of North America. Spence delves into various tribes' myths, legends, and spiritual beliefs, providing valuable insights into the cultural and historical significance of these stories. Written in a scholarly yet accessible style, the book offers a deep exploration of the literary context of Native American mythology and its impact on modern literature and popular culture. This work is essential for anyone interested in Native American folklore and traditional beliefs. Lewis Spence, a renowned Scottish historian and folklorist, was known for his expertise in mythology and ancient civilizations. His background in anthropology and archaeology enabled him to provide a well-rounded analysis of indigenous myths, shedding light on their significance and relevance in today's world. Spence's dedication to preserving and sharing these stories showcases his commitment to cultural preservation and understanding. 'The Myths of the North American Indians' is a must-read for those seeking a comprehensive and enlightening exploration of Native American folklore.