The Earth on Turtle’s Back

Onondaga- Northeast WoodlandsRetold by Michael J. Caduto and Joseph Bruchac

About the Selection

• This myth from the Onondaga people relates a story about the creation of the world. In this version, the Earth forms as an offshoot of a celestial place called Skyland.

Literary Analysis

• The origin myth can be seen as a mixture of science and religion – they explain how the world and the things in it came to be.

• Read the first sentence. How do the opening words of this story identify it as an origin myth?

Reading Strategy: Recognizing Cultural Details

• We will read the second and third paragaphs aloud.

• Identify the cultural details or topics that appear in this passage.

• Note the references to marriage, childbirth, respect for age, and the role of dreams.

Reading Strategy Questions

• What do the Chief’s words to his wife tell you about the beliefs of the Onondaga?

• What does the Skyland Chief’s wife dream?

• In Oral Literature, why might characters have generic names like “Loon” or “Muskrat?”

Critical Reading

• In your Reading section of your notebook, respond to the Critical Reading Questions #1-5 on page 20.