|
|
This article needs attention from an expert in Anthropology. The specific problem is: specific guidelines need to be set by an anthropologist in order for the article to be expanded. subject is very specialised. WikiProject Anthropology (or its Portal) may be able to help recruit an expert. (February 2013) |
Micronesian mythology refers to the traditional belief systems of the people of Micronesia.
Micronesia, an area in the southwest Pacific Ocean containing thousands of islands, has no single mythology. The various islands and island groups including the Caroline Islands, Marshall Islands, Mariana Islands, and Gilbert Islands, each have their own collection of legends and mythological beings. Micronesia is part of a vast region known as Oceania. Europeans arrived in Micronesia in the 1520s and brought Christianity with them. As the new religion became established in many areas, traditional beliefs declined. In addition, the contact with European cultures led to changes in local myths and legends. Travelers and missionaries wrote down some of the original myths, but many were lost before they could be recorded. Although the myths and legends have changed over the years, reflecting developments in Micronesia, they remain an important part of the region's cultural heritage.[1]
See also [edit]
Sources [edit]
- Bo Flood, Beret E. Strong, William Flood, Micronesian Legends, Bess Press, 2002; ISBN 1573061298
- Bo Flood, Marianas island legends: myth and magic, Bess Press, 2001; ISBN 1573061026
- Bo Flood, Margo Vitarelli, From the Mouth of the Monster Eel: Stories from Micronesia, 1996; ISBN 1555912451
External links [edit]
