The Native Races [of the Pacific states], Volume 3, Myths and Languages / The Works of Hubert Howe Bancroft, Volume 3

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

43123

Title

The Native Races [of the Pacific states], Volume 3, Myths and Languages / The Works of Hubert Howe Bancroft, Volume 3

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This volume explores the myths, languages, and spiritual beliefs of Native peoples across the Pacific States. Bancroft examines creation stories, animal symbolism, and deities from diverse cultures, offering a comprehensive look at indigenous worldviews.

Summary up to 500 words

In Volume III of *The Native Races*, Hubert Howe Bancroft presents a comprehensive exploration of indigenous mythology and linguistics across the Pacific states. The volume begins by distinguishing between human invention and divine gifts regarding the origin of language, while examining creation myths from diverse tribes such as the Quiché and Aztec. Bancroft details physical myths explaining natural phenomena, including eclipses, earthquakes, and the geological formation of Mount Shasta and Clear Lake. A central theme is animal mythology, particularly the role of the Coyote as a cunning trickster who aids humanity or suffers tragic fates. The text categorizes gods and supernatural beings from the Eskimo to the Mexicans, detailing their religious rites and festivals. A significant portion is dedicated to linguistics, analyzing the structure and relationships of languages ranging from the Tinneh family to the complex grammars of the Pima and Shoshone. Bancroft argues for the distinct individuality of American tongues while noting surprising affinities with European languages in certain regions. Through these narratives, the volume preserves a vast array of cultural heritage, offering insights into how indigenous peoples understood their place in the cosmos. Specific legends illustrate these themes: the transformation of grasshoppers into fishes after a man's death; the origin of Clear Lake and Mount Diablo through a great flood where only a Coyote survived to create men with an Eagle; and the opening of the Golden Gate by a massive earthquake. Another prominent story involves Mount Shasta, described as the wigwam of the Great Spirit. Here, the Creator fashioned the world and animals but feared the grizzly bear, so he hollowed out the mountain for his own residence. A tragic myth recounts how the Great Spirit's daughter was blown down to earth by a storm; she was raised by grizzlies until her father returned in fury, cursing them to walk on all fours and silencing their speech forever. The volume also delves into the linguistic families of California, the Shoshone, Pueblo, and Lower California regions, providing comparative vocabularies and grammatical analyses that highlight both unique characteristics and shared roots among these diverse cultures.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Indians of North America
• Indians of Central America
• Indians of Mexico