1. Stories of How Life Began
Origin Myths
Stories of How Life Began

2. What is an origin myth?
MYTH is a word that derives from the Greek ‘mythos’ which originally meant ‘speech’ or ‘discourse.’
Origin myths are stories that attempt to explain how the world and all the things in it, including humans, came to be.
Origin myths often derive their stories from the environment, utilizing the terrain, vegetation, animals, and the climate of their environment to explaing the people’s beginnings.
Examples of origin myths?

3. Functions of Origin Myths
Demonstrate the mystery and wonder of creation.
Explain the way the natural world works.
Pass down moral and ethical codes of living.
To teach people how to live in a given area

4. How are myths remembered?
Origin myths are a part of ‘folklore,’ meaning they’ve been passed down from generation to generation
ORAL TRADITION is the main method of passing these stories down to the next generation.
Tribes or groups of people elect storytellers who speak the stories aloud

5. Why are myths remembered?
Origin myths contain ARCHETYPES that represent people, events and things common to many different people.
ARCHETYPES are patterns, events, symbols, or character types that repeat across cultures
Examples of archetypes: the ‘Christ figure,’ the superhero, the nurturing mother, the devil, the innocent, wise old man, and Death.
The cardinal directions (north, east, south, and west) as well as the seasons of the year can be archetypes.

6. Reading charts for Origin Myths
Selection and Phenomenon
Explanation
“The Earth on the Turtle’s Back”:
The creation of the world
“When Grizzlies Walked Upright”:
Mount shasta, beaver, otter, fish, birds, grizzly bears
From The Navajo Legend:

7. Chart 2 for Origin Myths ARCHETYPE CHARACTER REPRESENTATION
Small determined character who saves the day
The disobedient child
Being of two races
Source of nutrients