American Hero-Myths: A Study in the Native Religions of the Western Continent

"American Hero-Myths: A Study in the Native Religions of the Western Continent" by Daniel G. Brinton is a scholarly examination of indigenous American mythologies and religious beliefs, written in the late 19th century. The book seeks to analyze and interpret the hero-myths of various Native American tribes, illuminating their significance in understanding human thought regarding creation, culture, and divinity. Brinton's work underscores the importance of these myths as reflections of deeper cultural insights rather than mere historical accounts. The opening of the book serves as a preface outlining Brinton's intent to contribute to the comparative study of religion. He addresses the misconceptions and neglect surrounding native mythologies, advocating for their rigorous examination and interpretation. Brinton emphasizes the shared themes among mythologies across different tribes, positing that many hero-gods reflect archetypes such as creators or culture-bringers. He introduces the structure of his analysis, which includes the examination of myth-making processes and a comparative approach, laying the groundwork for a more profound understanding of cultural narratives that persist in shaping the identities and beliefs of indigenous peoples. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Download for free

For your e-reader or reading app — Kindle, Kobo, Apple Books, Calibre etc.

Other formats & older devices

About this eBook

Author Brinton, Daniel G. (Daniel Garrison), 1837-1899
Title American Hero-Myths: A Study in the Native Religions of the Western Continent
Credits Produced by David Starner, Inka Weide and PG Distributed Proofreaders
Reading Level Reading ease score: 65.2 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.
Language English
LoC Class E011: History: America: America
Subject Indian mythology
Subject Indians -- Religion
Category Text
eBook-No. 11029
Release Date
Last Update Oct 28, 2024
Copyright Public domain in the USA.
Downloads 1064 downloads in the last 30 days.

Project Gutenberg eBooks are always free!