Myths and Tales from the White Mountain Apache: Anthropological Papers of the American Museum of Natural History Vol. XXIV, Part II

"Myths and Tales from the White Mountain Apache" by Pliny Earle Goddard is a collection of folkloric narratives written in the early 20th century. The book provides free translations of the myths and tales as recorded in the dialect of the White Mountain Apache, exploring themes of creation, ancestry, and the interplay between humans and nature. The collection likely serves to preserve and share the rich cultural heritage and mythology of the Apache people, reflecting their worldview and traditions. At the start of the text, the introduction presents the motivation behind the collection, emphasizing that the narratives were recorded to capture the stories of the White Mountain Apache, specifically during a study in the Southwest. The opening myth narrates the unique creation story involving a maiden who becomes pregnant after receiving the Sun's breath. This tale introduces the boys born from her, setting them on a journey to discover their father, the Sun. As they traverse dangerous terrains and encounter various characters, including the Raven and Eagle, the story intertwines elements of myth and adventure, establishing a foundation for the rich tapestry of tales that follow in the book.