The Raven
This week I read the story Alaskan Legends. I really enjoyed
the stories because they were so different from anything I’ve ever read before.
I think it is really beneficial to read stories from other cultures because
they advance your knowledge. I also think that it is beneficial because when we
read other cultures history and learn about their culture we become more
tolerant and accepting to others.
One of the most interesting stories that I read this week
was Raven's
Creation. This story was about how a raven was the only being in the land
and then a man was born of the pea pod he created. The raven observed the man
for some time and then he came down and spoke with him. He showed him that he
could also transform in to a human being. Once he was a human being he showed
the man that he could create things from clay from the river. He grasped it in
his hands and created several forms of deer and also mountain goats. Then
finally he showed all of these things and the man was feeling lonely so the
raven had a solution. The raven then made a woman out of clay for the man to
keep him company and to be together forever.
Web Source: Flickr
From what I have read, ravens are sometimes portrayed as trickster characters in some Native American stories as well, although I believe the trickster role is primarily filled by Coyote or occasionally Rabbit most of the time. It's interesting to me how certain animals are ascribed such detailed characteristics, which sometimes vary from culture to culture. The owl is considered a creature of ill omen in many Native American cultures, and I've always wondered why, since in Western culture I believe they are normally associated with wisdom (this might be a modern thing though). Cultural conceptions of animals is certainly an interesting topic to consider in my opinion.
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