World Mythology Survey Flashcards

Use this deck to gain a quick and broad understanding of many of the world's other, less frequently studied mythological traditions.

You may prefer our related Brainscape-certified flashcards:
1
Q

Generally, how do/did most Native Americans praise their gods?

A

Through dance, song, and trance

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2
Q

What are some mythological themes shared between distinct Native American tribes?

A
  • All-powerful Great Spirit
  • Bond with nature
  • Respect for ancestors
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3
Q

How was Native American mythology passed on from generation to generation?

A

through the oral tradition

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4
Q

What are some recurring symbols in Native American mythology?

A
  • seasons
  • animals
  • the elements
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5
Q

What are two popular themes in African mythology?

A

the creation of the world and the afterlife

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6
Q

What were the professional storytellers who preserved the oral tradition called in Africa?

A

griots

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7
Q

What is the role of the dragon in Chinese mythology?

A
  • powerful, godlike mythical creature
  • commander of all waters
  • assisted both heroes and gods
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8
Q

Who is Nüwa in Chinese mythology?

A

goddess who created mankind and who rebuilt the wall of heaven

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9
Q

Who was the Jade Emperor in Chinese mythology?

A

ruler who reigned over heaven, earth, and hell

  • granted rewards based on a merit system, the Jade Principles Golden Script
  • his rulings could be contested by elders
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10
Q

Which Mayan document contains creation myths centered on the Mayan Hero Twins?

A

Popul Vuh, known also as the Book of the Council

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11
Q

Name some themes in Mayan mythology.

A
  • creation of the world and mankind
  • apocalypse
  • union with nature
  • origin of the sun and moon
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12
Q

Who was the principal god in Mayan mythology?

A

Itzamná

  • commanded heaven, day, and night, along with all other gods
  • gave people resources for civilization, e.g. fire and writing
  • associated with healing
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13
Q

What are the three main written sources for Irish mythology?

A
  • Lebor na hUidre
  • Book of Leinster
  • Rawlinson Manuscript
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14
Q

Who was the Dagda in Irish mythology?

A

God and father figure who presided over all other Irish gods

  • powerful but compassionate
  • often depicted with a spear
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15
Q

Who was the Morrígan in Irish mythology?

A

Battle goddess known for her role in the Táin Bó Cúailnge, an epic tale of war

  • Also associated with fertility
  • Takes the form of animals, including a cow, a wolf, a crow, and an eel
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16
Q

What is the role of ancestors in African mythology?

A

Various beliefs for the souls of the dead:

  • Ancestors are born again through babies
  • Others become stars
  • They remain close to the living as protectors and guardians, etc.