Myths of the Cherokee

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Myths of the Cherokee

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

James Mooney presents a seminal ethnographic collection documenting the oral traditions, myths, and cultural history of the Cherokee people. Based on extensive field research conducted between 1887 and 1890, this work preserves sacred legends, cosmogonic beliefs, and historical narratives from the East Cherokee and the Cherokee Nation, offering a vital glimpse into the tribe's ancient worldview and resilience against colonial pressures.

Summary up to 500 words

James Mooney's 'Myths of the Cherokee' stands as a foundational text in American ethnology, compiling a vast array of folklore collected directly from Cherokee informants during field seasons in the late 19th century. The volume is structured to first provide a historical sketch of the tribe, detailing their vast mountainous territory, complex tribal organization, and turbulent relations with European powers and neighboring tribes like the Iroquois and Creeks. Mooney explains the etymology of the name 'Cherokee,' tracing its origins to Choctaw trade language, and highlights the distinction between the 'real people' (Ani-Yunwiya) and outsiders. The core of the book consists of rich mythological cycles. The 'Quadruped Myths' section recounts the legendary tale of Kana'td and his brother, who, after accidentally releasing all game animals from a cave, must learn to hunt. This narrative explains the origin of the deer's upright tail and the necessity of hunting. A parallel story details the death of Selu, the corn mother, by her disobedient sons. Her sacrifice explains why corn grows only in specific places and why it must be tended carefully; her blood caused corn to sprout, while her body's improper burial explains why crops are harvested in two stages. These myths also account for the origin of insects and the behavior of other animals. The 'Bird Myths' and 'Snake, Fish, and Insect Myths' sections explore the spiritual significance of various species, often personifying them or attributing human-like traits and histories to them. The text delves deeply into the agricultural life of the Cherokee, particularly the sacred Green-corn dance, which served as a ritual of expiation and renewal. Mooney meticulously describes the taboos surrounding corn, such as the prohibition against blowing on it to cool it, fearing it would summon a storm. The book also covers the cultivation of beans, the reverence for tobacco as a sacred incense, and the complex botanical lore regarding plants like ginseng, poison oak, and ginseng, which were treated with specific rituals and respect. Mooney's introduction emphasizes the importance of preserving these traditions, noting that while the Cherokee had adopted many aspects of white civilization, their core spiritual identity and ancient legends remained intact among the conservative mountain dwellers. The work serves not only as a repository of stories but as a testament to the intellectual and spiritual depth of the Cherokee people, challenging contemporary assumptions of the era that viewed indigenous cultures as static or inferior. Through careful collation of oral traditions and historical documents, Mooney provides a comprehensive portrait of a culture deeply connected to its environment and its ancestors.

LLM editorial rating

4.5/5

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Categories

• Folklore
• Mythology
• Ethnography