4th Post- American Indian Myths and Legends Ed. by Richard Erdoes and Alfonso Ortiz

American Indian myths have been altered throughout the centuries due to orators who try to make them relevant to society. In the article, American Indian Myths and Legends, by Richard Erdoes and Alfonso Ortiz, the writers include background information about the purpose of American Indian myths. They also include their interpretations of carefully selected myths. Although many of these stories have been altered, they continue to relate to similar issues because the symbols are used to show political and social problems.
It is believed that American Indians have had their history destroyed when the English settlers arrived. "The effects of white culture on many other regions, with the notable exceptions of the Southwest and the Plains, and to a degree the Northwest, have been devastating, with whole bodies of Indian literature erased, or warped beyond recognition in their contemporary representations." (Erodes and Ortiz, 2) A question that I have is, is this why fables/ myths/ fairytales were created? Since these cautionary tales are told by mouth, from generation to generation, the American Indians had nothing to loose since they weren't physically written down on paper. Did the American Indians trust that their stories wouldn't be modified? In my opinion, I believe that these people had no choice if they wanted their legends to continue on for many centuries.
The myth, When Grizzlies Walked Upright, caught my attention the most because it depicts everyday life experiences. In this story the bears weren't acting accordingly to the social rules, when they were walking on two legs instead of all fours, were denied the right for individuality, and forced to conduct themselves a certain way. I can relate this to my life because I know when my actions are different, when compared to the actions of my older siblings, I am looked down upon because I am acting out of the "norm." I find that young adults experience this the most because it is a time in our lives where we try to figure out our individuality, and along with social rules comes the desire to fit in.