EARLY AMERICAN LITERATURE

Creation Myths

HOW WAS THE WORLD CREATED? Consider and write what you might know regarding

different accounts of creation. (Choose and elaborate on at least 3 of the four categories listed.) Biblical Narrative Scientific Theories Stories from other Cultures (ex. Greek Mythology? Movies/Film

Sketch/Illustrate each account of creation account

WHAT IS A MYTH?WHAT IS A CREATION MYTH?

NATIVE AMERICANS

Culturally diverse 300 + different Native American cultures in North

America 200 + languages spoken among tribes No written language Had an oral tradition

History, legends, myths were entrusted to memory Passed from generation to generation; demonstrate reverence for

nature and the worship of many gods

Creation stories explain how the universe and humans came into being

Much of their history did not survive after so many Native Americans fell to European diseases.

Some groups lost as many as 90 percent of their people

IROQUOIS CREATION MYTH

“The World on the Turtle’s Back” p. 38

WHAT DOES THIS STORY REVEAL ABOUT: Roles of women in their society Role of nature in their culture Origin of certain customs / rituals Roles / beliefs of a higher power

Compare/Contrast “The World on the Turtle’s Back” to the account of Adam and Eve in Genesis How are they similar?

How are they different?