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Cover of Legends of Ma-ui—a demi god of Polynesia, and of his mother Hina

Legends of Ma-ui—a demi god of Polynesia, and of his mother Hina

Written by W. D. (William Drake) Westervelt

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LegendsHina (Polynesian deity)Maui (Polynesian deity)

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About this book

"Legends of Ma-ui—a demi god of Polynesia, and of his mother Hina" by W. D. Westervelt is a collection of mythological tales written in the early 20th century. The book explores the adventures and exploits of the demi-god Maui alongside his mother Hina, delving into themes of creation, transformation, and the cultural origins of the Hawaiian Islands. The narrative intertwines various legends which highlight Maui’s supernatural abilities and his interactions with the elements and other deities. The opening of the book introduces the legendary figure of Maui and provides context regarding his place within Polynesian mythology. It describes his family background, noting that he has several brothers, all named Maui. It also highlights Maui's unique attributes and skills, which set him apart within their family. The narrative touches on the legends surrounding Maui's actions, such as lifting the sky, fishing up islands, and searching for fire. Furthermore, it begins to lay the groundwork for a broader exploration of Maui's character as both a trickster and a benefactor, setting the stage for a variety of adventures threaded throughout the collection.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Legends of Ma-ui—a demi god of Polynesia, and of his mother Hina, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • mythical
  • adventurous
  • ancient

W. D. Westervelt's "Legends of Ma-ui—a demi god of Polynesia, and of his mother Hina" is a pivotal early 20th-century collection that meticulously compiles the rich mythological narratives surrounding the Polynesian demi-god Maui and his mother Hina. The book serves as an invaluable cultural record, preserving tales of creation, transformation, and the foundational origins of the Hawaiian Islands. Through a series of interconnected legends, Westervelt illuminates Maui's extraordinary supernatural abilities, showcasing his dual nature as both a mischievous trickster and a benevolent benefactor. The narrative delves into his family background, distinguishing him from his brothers, and chronicles his legendary exploits such as lifting the sky, fishing up islands, and bringing fire to humanity, thereby offering profound insights into Polynesian cosmology and societal values.

“"From the depths of the ocean, with cunning and strength, Maui pulled forth the lands that would be called home."”

Key themes

Creation and Transformation
This theme is central to the entire collection, as Maui's actions are directly responsible for shaping the physical world and establishing fundamental aspects of human existence. From literally pulling islands from the ocean to lifting the sky and bringing fire, Maui is portrayed as a cosmic architect whose interventions transform the primordial landscape into the world known to humans. This theme underscores the power of divine intervention and the mythological explanation for natural phenomena.
The Trickster Hero
Maui embodies the archetype of the trickster hero, a figure who often uses cunning, deception, and unconventional methods to achieve significant, often benevolent, outcomes. His mischievous nature is not always malicious but frequently serves to challenge established orders, outwit powerful deities, or overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles, ultimately benefiting humanity. This theme explores the idea that progress can arise from disruptive, non-conformist behavior.
Cultural Origins and Identity
The legends serve as foundational narratives explaining the origins of the Hawaiian Islands, their geographical features, and various cultural practices. They provide a mythological framework for understanding Polynesian identity, their connection to the land and sea, and their worldview. The stories are not just tales but explanations of 'how things came to be,' deeply embedded in the cultural fabric.

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How does Westervelt's compilation of oral traditions into written form impact the way we perceive and understand these myths?

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