Author
Frank Hamilton Cushing
1857-1900
Frank Hamilton Cushing (1857-1900) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Frank Hamilton Cushing
Zuñi Folk Tales
"Zuñi Folk Tales" by Frank Hamilton Cushing is a collection of folklore written in the late 19th century. The book captures traditional tales of the Zuñi people, exploring their customs, beliefs, and mythology, highlighting the cultural significance of storytelling in their society. The opening of the book introduces multiple stories, starting with "The Trial of Lovers," which narrates a young man's quest to win the heart of a beautiful maiden named Mátsaki. This young man faces trials set by the maiden, testing his love and dedication. We witness other suitors fail as they are driven away by swarms of insects, symbolizing the challenges love often presents. In a parallel story, "The Youth and His Eagle," a young man is torn between his affection for a beautiful eagle who turns into a maiden and the consequences of venturing into a dangerous world. These tales form a rich tapestry of lessons about love, loyalty, and the complexities of human desire, offering readers a glimpse into the vibrant culture and beliefs of the Zuñi people.
Outlines of Zuñi Creation Myths Thirteenth Annual Report of the Bureau of Ethnology to the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, 1891-1892, Government Printing Office, Washington, 1896, pages 321-448
"Outlines of Zuñi Creation Myths" by Frank Hamilton Cushing is a comprehensive ethnographic study that was likely written during the late 19th century. This work delves into the rich tapestry of creation myths held by the Zuñi people, detailing their beliefs, culture, and the complexities of their social organization. The text provides a deeper understanding of the Zuñi cosmology, exploring their historical interactions with European settlers and the continuity of their ancestral traditions. The opening of the work sets a foundation for understanding the Zuñi's sociocultural landscape by discussing their archaic traits and the lasting influence of Spanish colonization. It outlines the structure of Zuñi society and describes their mytho-sociological organization. Cushing shares his observations from his time with the Zuñi, detailing the interactions with Spanish missionaries and how these impacted traditional beliefs. Overall, the beginning of this work provides a context for the creation myths that follow, reflecting on how these stories encapsulate the historical journey of the Zuñi people while emphasizing their enduring cultural identity.
Zuñi Fetiches Second Annual Report of the Bureau of Ethnology to the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, 1880-1881, Government Printing Office, Washington, 1883, pages 3-45
"Zuñi Fetiches" by Frank Hamilton Cushing is an ethnographic study written in the late 19th century. The book explores the religious beliefs and practices of the Zuñi people, specifically focusing on their worship of fetiches, or spirit objects, that embody the powers of nature and animals in their ecosystem. Cushing delves into the intricate relationships between the Zuñi's philosophy of life, their gods, and the nature of existence itself. The opening of the book introduces the reader to Zuñi philosophy, which presents a worldview where all elements of nature, including humans, animals, and inanimate objects, are interconnected through a shared existence. It explains how the Zuñi people view animals as mediators between themselves and the divine, elaborating on the significance of fetiches in their rituals and spirituality. Cushing continues with a discussion on the origins of Zuñi fetichism, recounting foundational myths such as the "Zuñi Iliad" that illustrate the creation of the world and the interactions between gods and men, setting the stage for a deep exploration of the Zuñi's religious practices and beliefs throughout the text.
A Study of Pueblo Pottery as Illustrative of Zuñi Culture Growth. Fourth Annual Report of the Bureau of Ethnology to the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, 1882-83, Government Printing Office, Washington, 1886, pages 467-522
"A Study of Pueblo Pottery as Illustrative of Zuñi Culture Growth" by Frank Hamilton Cushing is a scientific publication written during the late 19th century. This book explores the intricate relationship between Pueblo pottery and the evolution of Zuñi culture, highlighting how environmental factors influenced both the pottery-making techniques and the architectural styles of the Zuñi tribes. As such, it delves into cultural artifacts as reflections of broader societal development within the context of the ancient Pueblo peoples. The book meticulously documents the historical development of Pueblo pottery, tracing its origins from early basketry to the advanced ceramic techniques employed by the Zuñis. Cushing examines various elements, including the environmental influences that necessitated certain design choices, the evolution of pottery forms, and the decorative symbolism embedded within the artwork. He outlines the transition from simple utilitarian wares to more elaborate and artistically designated ceramic pieces, each bearing cultural significance that reflects the rituals and beliefs of the Zuñi people. Through linguistic analysis and ethnographic observations, Cushing provides a nuanced understanding of how these pottery forms function not only as practical vessels but also as vital components of Zuñi identity and spirituality.