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Contribution to Passamaquoddy Folk-Lore   By: (1850-1930)

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Contributions to Passamaquoddy Folk-Lore by Jesse Walter Fewkes is undoubtedly a remarkable and invaluable compilation of Native American tales and traditions from the Passamaquoddy tribe. This book, which delve into the rich cultural heritage of the Passamaquoddy people, is a testament to the author's dedication and expertise in the field of anthropology and ethnography.

One of the notable aspects of this book is its meticulous attention to detail. Fewkes, a renowned American anthropologist, has meticulously documented a wide range of Passamaquoddy myths, legends, and rituals, preserving them for future generations. The author's efforts to accurately capture the oral traditions of the tribe are commendable, as he seamlessly interweaves textual analysis with insightful commentary, giving readers an immersive and authentic experience of the Passamaquoddy culture.

Throughout the book, Fewkes showcases his deep respect for the Passamaquoddy people and their traditions. His approach is marked by a willingness to learn and understand the tribe's beliefs, symbols, and ritual practices. This empathy and open-mindedness contribute to the overall credibility of the book, as readers can trust the author's intentions and portrayal of the Passamaquoddy folklore.

Moreover, Contributions to Passamaquoddy Folk-Lore serves a significant purpose in preserving and disseminating knowledge about a culture that might otherwise be forgotten or misunderstood. The author's inclusion of detailed explanations and contextual information enhances the accessibility of this rich cultural legacy, making it a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in Native American folklore.

One minor limitation of the book is its dense and academic prose, which might deter casual readers seeking a more light-hearted exploration of Native American folklore. However, this can easily be overlooked as the content itself compensates for any potential lack of accessibility. Despite its academic tone, Fewkes manages to create an engaging narrative, immersing the reader in the vibrant world of the Passamaquoddy tribe.

In conclusion, Contributions to Passamaquoddy Folk-Lore by Jesse Walter Fewkes is an outstanding contribution to the field of anthropology and Native American studies. Fewkes' meticulous research, deep respect for the Passamaquoddy culture, and dedication to preserving their folklore make this book an indispensable resource. Whether you are a scholar, enthusiast, or simply curious about Native American traditions, this comprehensive collection of Passamaquoddy tales and practices will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

First Page:

Hemenway Southwestern Archæological Expedition

CONTRIBUTION TO PASSAMAQUODDY FOLK LORE

by

J. WALTER FEWKES

Reprinted from the Journal of American Folk Lore, October December, 1890

A CONTRIBUTION TO PASSAMAQUODDY FOLK LORE.

The study of aboriginal folk lore cannot reach its highest scientific value until some method is adopted by means of which an accurate record of the stories can be obtained and preserved. In observations on the traditions of the Indian tribes, the tendency of the listener to add his own thoughts or interpretations is very great. Moreover, no two Indians tell the same story alike. These are sources of error which cannot be eliminated, but by giving the exact words of the speaker it is possible to do away with the errors of the translator.

I believe that the memory of Indians for the details of a story is often better than that of white men. There may be a reason for this, in their custom of memorizing their rituals, stories, and legends. The K[=a]klan, a Zuñi ritual, for instance, which is recited by the priest once in four years, takes several hours to repeat. What white man can repeat from memory a history of equal length after so long an interval?

Phonetic methods of recording Indian languages are not wholly satisfactory. It is very unlikely that two persons will adopt the same spelling of a word never heard before... Continue reading book >>




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