Overview:
This book is a collection of myths and legends from the Caribbean and Pacific islands, particularly Puerto Rico, Cuba, the Philippines, and Hawaii. The author, Charles M. Skinner, explores the stories passed down through generations, shedding light on the beliefs, traditions, and cultural values of these indigenous peoples. The book provides insights into the history, mythology, and everyday life of these diverse cultures, including their beliefs in gods, spirits, and magic, their encounters with the Spanish colonists, and their unique experiences with both natural and supernatural events.
Main Parts:
The book is divided into two sections: In the Caribbean and In the Pacific. Each section delves into the stories, beliefs, and traditions of the specific islands within those regions.
In the Caribbean:
- Mysterious Islands: The section begins by exploring the legend of Atlantis and its connection to the Caribbean islands, followed by tales of mythical islands like Hy-Brasail and the Island of Youth.
- Buccaneers: This section chronicles the history and legends of the buccaneers, their rise from smugglers to pirates, their brutal and lawless behavior, and their impact on the Spanish colonies.
- Early Porto Rico: The author explores the arrival of the Spanish in Porto Rico, the indigenous Boriqueños, their subjugation and extinction, and their unique beliefs and traditions.
- The Church in Porto Rico: This section delves into the influence of the Spanish church in Porto Rico, including the impact of saints and miracles, the use of religion for political control, and the worship of indigenous deities.
- Police Activity in Humacao: This part explores the challenges posed by criminals and outlaws during Spanish rule, focusing on a humorous anecdote about a particularly clever thief.
In the Pacific:
- Ancient Faiths of Hawaii: This section examines the Hawaiian beliefs in a trinity of gods, the creation of the world, the stories of their first parents, and the origins of their traditions and customs.
- The Giant Gods: The author explores the myths of giant gods like Kana and Maui, their immense powers, and their influence on the world and the people.
- The Hawaiian Iliad: This chapter recounts the epic tale of Kaupepee, a Molokai chief, his abduction of Hina, the beautiful wife of a Hawaiian chief, and the subsequent war between the islands.
- The Hawaiian Orpheus and Eurydice: This section tells the story of Hiku, a prince who loses his love, Kawelu, and sets off to the underworld to retrieve her spirit and bring her back to life.
- The Rebellion of Kamiole: This chapter narrates the story of Kamiole, a disaffected chief, his rebellion against King Kanipahu, his assassination of the king’s general, and the eventual victory of King Kanipahu’s son, Kalapana.
View on Life:
This text showcases diverse views on life and living, often influenced by the specific traditions and experiences of each culture.
Caribbean:
- Resilience and Resistance: The stories of the Caribs and the Porto Rican aborigines highlight their courage and defiance in the face of Spanish oppression, demonstrating the resilience of indigenous cultures.
- Spiritual Connection to Nature: The islanders’ beliefs in spirits residing in natural elements like water, mountains, and forests, showcase a deep spiritual connection to the environment.
- Emphasis on Community and Shared Resources: Stories of the Porto Ricans illustrate their collectivist values, where resources are shared and “mine” and “thine” have no place.
Pacific:
- Importance of Ancestry and Lineage: The Hawaiian myths place a strong emphasis on lineage, ancestry, and the importance of upholding traditions passed down from generations.
- Balance of Power and Supernatural Forces: The stories reflect a complex understanding of the universe, where gods, spirits, and human beings exist in a delicate balance, with supernatural forces playing a significant role in shaping destiny.
- Justice and Retribution: Myths frequently feature themes of justice and retribution, where wrongdoing is punished by the gods or by other individuals, reinforcing the importance of upholding moral codes.
Scenarios:
The text presents a variety of scenarios and situations, some drawn from mythology and others reflecting historical events.
Caribbean:
- Conquest and Colonization: The arrival of the Spanish in the Caribbean islands and the ensuing conquest, subjugation, and displacement of indigenous populations.
- Witchcraft and Superstition: The prevalence of Obeah witches, voodoo practices, and the fear of evil spirits in the Caribbean islands.
- Pirates and Smuggling: The rise of the buccaneers, their acts of piracy and smuggling, and the corrupt alliance between pirates and colonial officials.
Pacific:
- Migrations and Exploration: Stories of early migrations from Samoa and Tahiti to Hawaii, and the exploration of the Pacific islands by brave seafarers.
- Clash of Cultures: The encounters between the indigenous peoples and the early European explorers, particularly Captain Cook’s arrival in Hawaii, and the subsequent consequences.
- Rebellions and Power Struggles: The battles for power and authority between different chiefs and kingdoms, often driven by ambition, jealousy, and the desire for revenge.
Challenges:
The text explores a multitude of challenges faced by the indigenous peoples, ranging from natural disasters to conflicts with Spanish colonists and rival tribes.
Caribbean:
- Survival Under Spanish Rule: The indigenous populations faced relentless oppression, slavery, forced assimilation, and violence at the hands of the Spanish.
- Natural Disasters: The islanders faced the perils of hurricanes, earthquakes, and the destructive power of volcanoes.
- Rival Tribes: The conflict between the peaceful Arawaks and the warlike Caribs, highlighting the challenges of maintaining peace and security.
Pacific:
- Maintaining Traditions and Beliefs: The indigenous peoples faced the challenge of preserving their traditions and beliefs in the face of external influences, particularly those brought by European explorers and missionaries.
- Power Struggles and Internal Conflict: The constant battles between rival chiefs and kingdoms, driven by ambition, greed, and the desire for revenge, created significant challenges for maintaining peace and stability.
- The Arrival of Western Culture: The arrival of Western culture, particularly missionaries, presented challenges to the islanders’ traditional values, beliefs, and way of life.
Conflict:
Conflict is a recurring theme throughout the text, and it manifests in various forms, including:
Caribbean:
- Spanish Colonization and Indigenous Resistance: The conflict between the Spanish colonists and the indigenous populations, marked by violence, oppression, and cultural clashes.
- Clash Between Tradition and Western Influences: The conflict between the indigenous peoples’ beliefs and traditions and the imposition of Western culture, particularly Christianity and European values.
- Internal Conflict and Tribal Warfare: The conflict between the Caribs and the Arawaks, representing the struggle between peaceful and warlike cultures.
Pacific:
- Rivalries Between Chiefs and Kingdoms: The conflict between chiefs and kingdoms, driven by ambition, greed, and the desire for power and revenge.
- Clash Between Tradition and Modernity: The conflict between the traditional Hawaiian way of life and the arrival of Western influences, particularly missionaries and the spread of Western culture.
- The Struggle for Independence: The challenge faced by the indigenous populations in resisting colonial rule and seeking independence.
Plot:
The book is structured as a collection of individual stories or legends, each presenting a unique plot. Some of the key plots include:
Caribbean:
- The Escape of the Slaves: A group of slaves, by cleverly exploiting their captors’ fear of the devil, escape from their ship and gain their freedom.
- The Witch of Nassau: A powerful Obeah witch uses her magic to control the wind and bring fortune to a pirate captain.
- The Justice of Tacon: General Tacon, a Spanish governor of Cuba, enforces justice and protects the populace from criminals.
Pacific:
- The Search for the Stolen Sun: The demi-god Maui steals the sun to prolong the day so his wife can finish her work.
- The Quest for the Water of Life: A brave prince embarks on a journey to retrieve his lover’s spirit from the underworld.
- The Battle of Haupu: A Molokai chief, Kaupepee, wages war against the people of Hawaii to secure the love of Hina.
Point of View:
The text primarily adopts a third-person narrative perspective, offering an objective and detached view of the events and the characters’ experiences. The author’s voice is clear and engaging, seamlessly blending historical facts and mythological tales, allowing the reader to delve into the world of the stories and gain a deeper understanding of the cultures and perspectives represented.
How it’s Written:
The author utilizes a descriptive and engaging style, weaving together historical accounts with folklore and myths. He employs vivid imagery, colorful language, and a captivating storytelling approach that transports the reader to the world of the legends.
Example: “The air grew dark; faint, grisly shapes arose, and wailing voices sounded, “Heaven has fallen!” Standing on the rainbow bridge, the father, mother, and wife cast off their love for the prince, and condemned him to be a wandering ghost, living on butterflies.” (The Lady of the Twilight)
Tone:
The tone of the text is informative, respectful, and occasionally humorous. The author approaches the subject matter with a sense of curiosity and wonder, allowing the reader to appreciate the beauty and complexity of these diverse cultures.
Life Choices:
The text showcases a variety of life choices made by characters, driven by love, ambition, greed, fear, and other motivations.
Caribbean:
- The Choice of Loyalty: The indigenous people faced the choice of either submitting to Spanish rule or resisting, risking their lives for their freedom and their beliefs.
- The Temptation of Power: Buccaneers and pirates were tempted by the allure of wealth and power, leading them down a path of violence and lawlessness.
Pacific:
- The Pursuit of Love: Characters like Hiku and Lono demonstrate the power of love and the lengths they would go to secure their beloved.
- The Desire for Power and Revenge: Characters like Kamiole and Kaupepee are driven by their desire for power and their thirst for revenge, leading them down destructive paths.
Lessons:
The text offers several life lessons, often embedded within the stories and the perspectives of the characters.
Caribbean:
- The Importance of Freedom and Resistance: The stories of the indigenous peoples offer a powerful message about the importance of fighting for freedom and resisting oppression.
- The Dangers of Greed and Corruption: The stories of the buccaneers and corrupt colonial officials warn about the dangers of greed and corruption, and their corrosive effects on society.
Pacific:
- The Power of Love and Compassion: Myths like The Hawaiian Orpheus and Eurydice and The Wronged Wife highlight the transformative power of love and compassion, and the ability to overcome great challenges.
- The Consequences of Revenge and Violence: Stories of characters like Kaupepee and Kamiole illustrate the destructive nature of revenge and violence, and the lasting damage they can inflict on individuals and communities.
Characters:
The book introduces a cast of memorable characters, each possessing unique traits and motivations. Here are some key characters:
Caribbean:
- Ponce de Leon: A Spanish explorer and conquistador known for his pursuit of the Fountain of Youth and his brutal treatment of the indigenous populations.
- Captain Morgan: A notorious English pirate who plundered Spanish colonies and was known for his ruthlessness and cruelty.
- Blackbeard: A fearsome pirate known for his fierce appearance, his use of fire and sulphur, and his association with the devil.
- Maumee Niña: A powerful Obeah woman who seeks revenge on those who have wronged her and uses her magic to influence events.
Pacific:
- Maui: A demi-god known for his immense size and his ability to control the sun.
- Pele: The fiery volcano goddess, known for her beauty, her destructive power, and her volatile temperament.
- Kaupepee: A Molokai chief who wages war against the people of Hawaii to win the love of Hina.
- Kamehameha the Great: A legendary Hawaiian king who united the islands and is revered for his strength and leadership.
- Taito Perico: A fearsome and elusive outlaw who terrorizes the Hawaiian islands with his brutal crimes.
Themes:
The text explores a variety of themes that resonate with readers on a personal and universal level. Some of the key themes include:
Caribbean:
- Cultural Conflict and Identity: The stories of conquest and colonization highlight the conflict between dominant and oppressed cultures, and the struggles for identity and autonomy.
- The Impact of Power and Corruption: The stories illustrate how power can corrupt individuals and systems, leading to injustice, violence, and societal decline.
Pacific:
- The Power of Love and Forgiveness: Myths often feature themes of love, loss, and redemption, highlighting the ability of love to overcome challenges and to inspire forgiveness.
- The Role of Fate and Destiny: The stories explore the role of fate and destiny, and how supernatural forces can influence the lives of individuals and the course of events.
- The Importance of Tradition and Cultural Heritage: The myths emphasize the importance of preserving traditions, cultural heritage, and the stories of the past, providing a sense of identity and connection to the past.
Principles:
The text offers insights into the fundamental principles and beliefs of the cultures it examines:
Caribbean:
- Respect for Nature and the Supernatural: The islanders held a deep respect for the power of nature and the supernatural, and their actions were often guided by these beliefs.
- The Importance of Community and Shared Resources: The islanders often lived in close-knit communities where resources were shared and valued, reflecting a collectivist ideology.
Pacific:
- The Power of the Supernatural: The islanders held a strong belief in the power of gods, spirits, and magic, and their lives were often shaped by these beliefs.
- Importance of Lineage and Ancestry: The stories emphasize the importance of lineage, ancestry, and upholding traditions passed down from generations.
- The Role of Fate and Destiny: The islanders believed that destiny and fate were often determined by divine forces or by powerful spirits.
Intentions:
The text explores the intentions of various characters, both within the narratives and for the reader:
Caribbean:
- Spanish Colonists: The Spanish colonists were driven by greed, ambition, and a desire for power and wealth. Their intention was to exploit the resources of the islands and to subjugate the indigenous populations.
- Buccaneers: The buccaneers were driven by greed, a desire for adventure, and a desire to challenge Spanish authority. Their intention was to plunder Spanish colonies and to live a life of freedom and lawlessness.
Pacific:
- Hawaiian Chiefs: Hawaiian chiefs were often driven by ambition, greed, and a desire for power and prestige. They sought to expand their kingdoms and to maintain control over their people.
- The Author: Charles M. Skinner’s intention was to collect and preserve the folklore and myths of these diverse cultures, providing a valuable record of their history, beliefs, and traditions. He aimed to offer readers a glimpse into these rich and complex cultures and to inspire an appreciation for their beauty and wisdom.
Unique Vocabulary:
The text uses a variety of unique words and phrases, reflecting the specific languages and dialects of the cultures explored. Some of the unique vocabulary includes:
Caribbean:
- Cacique: A native American chief or leader.
- Zemes: Indigenous deities or spirits.
- Nañigos: A secret society of enslaved African people in Cuba.
- Obeah: A form of witchcraft practiced in the Caribbean.
Pacific:
- Menehune: A race of small, mythical people in Hawaiian lore.
- Kahuna: A Hawaiian priest or sorcerer.
- Taboo: A prohibition or restriction imposed by tradition or by the gods.
- Awa: A fermented beverage made from a Polynesian root.
- Poi: A staple food of Hawaiians, made from mashed taro root.
- Hula: A traditional Hawaiian dance form.
Anecdotes:
The text includes several key anecdotes that illustrate important points about the cultures and the characters:
Caribbean:
- The Drowning of Salzedo: A Porto Rican chief tests the supposed immortality of the Spanish by having a man submerged in water, proving that they are mortal.
- The Dutchman’s Gift: A Dutch magistrate unknowingly contributes to the spread of coffee cultivation in the Caribbean, by sending a coffee tree to the French King.
- The Justice of Tacon: General Tacon, a Spanish governor of Cuba, uses his cunning and his authority to apprehend a notorious criminal, Marti, and to reform the city of Havana.
Pacific:
- Maui Steals the Sun: The demi-god Maui steals the sun to prolong the day so his wife can finish her work.
- The Spirit of the Volcano: The volcano goddess Pele wreaks havoc on those who offend her and is revered for her power and beauty.
- The Sacrifice of a Pig: In a time of famine, a priest sacrifices a pig to appease the gods, bringing an end to the drought.
Ideas:
The text presents a variety of ideas related to the cultures examined. Some of the key ideas include:
Caribbean:
- The Importance of Cultural Preservation: The text underscores the importance of preserving and understanding the traditions and beliefs of indigenous cultures.
- The Impact of Colonialism: The author explores the consequences of colonization, highlighting the impact on indigenous populations and the enduring legacy of cultural conflict.
Pacific:
- The Importance of Storytelling and Myth: The text emphasizes the role of storytelling and myth in shaping cultural identity, transmitting values, and preserving history.
- The Power of Belief and Faith: The stories illustrate the power of belief and faith, and how these beliefs can influence the lives of individuals and communities.
- The Interconnectedness of the Natural World: The myths demonstrate the islanders’ profound understanding and respect for the interconnectedness of the natural world and their belief in the power of nature.
Facts and Findings:
The text incorporates factual information related to the history, geography, and cultures of the islands. Some of the facts and findings include:
Caribbean:
- The Colonization of the Caribbean Islands: The text details the arrival of the Spanish, the conquest of the islands, and the exploitation of the indigenous populations.
- The Origins of Tobacco and Coffee: The text examines the origins of tobacco and coffee in the Americas, highlighting their impact on global trade and culture.
Pacific:
- The Exploration of Hawaii by Captain Cook: The text describes Captain Cook’s encounters with the Hawaiian people and the tragic events leading to his death.
- The Rise of Kamehameha the Great: The text recounts the story of Kamehameha, a powerful Hawaiian king who united the islands and established a new political order.
- The Impact of Missionaries: The text explores the arrival of Christian missionaries and their impact on the traditional Hawaiian way of life.
Statistics:
The text includes statistical data related to the history and demographics of the islands:
Caribbean:
- The Decline of Indigenous Populations: The text notes that the indigenous populations of Porto Rico and Cuba suffered significant decline due to Spanish colonization, disease, and violence.
Pacific:
- The Population of Hawaii: The text mentions the estimated population of Hawaii before the arrival of Europeans, highlighting the significant cultural and societal changes brought about by contact with the West.
Points of View:
The text often presents multiple points of view on events and beliefs, reflecting the diverse perspectives within the cultures examined:
Caribbean:
- The Perspective of the Indigenous Peoples: The text highlights the struggles and perspectives of the indigenous populations facing Spanish colonization and oppression.
- The Perspective of the Spanish Colonists: The text presents the Spanish perspective on colonization, revealing their justifications for conquest and their view of the indigenous populations.
Pacific:
- The Traditional Hawaiian Perspective: The text explores the traditional Hawaiian beliefs, values, and mythology, offering insights into their worldview.
- The Perspective of the Western Explorers and Missionaries: The text presents the views and interpretations of the Western explorers and missionaries, who often viewed the indigenous cultures through a lens of Western superiority and sought to replace their beliefs with Christianity.
Perspective:
The text provides a valuable perspective on the history, culture, and beliefs of the indigenous populations of the Caribbean and the Pacific islands. It sheds light on their unique traditions, their encounters with the Spanish colonists, and the challenges they faced in preserving their cultures and identities.
Overall Perspective: The book offers a nuanced perspective on the myths and legends of these cultures, recognizing the complexity of their history, their beliefs, and their perspectives on life. It highlights the resilience of these indigenous peoples and the importance of understanding their rich cultural heritage.