How Cherokee Myth Influenced Modern American Comprehension

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Throughout Mythology with Professor Beck, we have explored many different myths from around the world, as well as the universal themes, archetypes, patterns, monomyths, and symbols that connect humanity together and provide a universal understanding of these myths. Throughout our explorations we took the time to explore many creation myths, myths that depict the creation of the universe, the world, and humanity, but they also attempt to capture the reasons for why they were created, to comprehend natural phenomena, or as a way to establish humanity’s role or as a means of moral guidance and code of conduct. One such myth that we did not explore is the Cherokee myth “Thunder appoints Eagle ruler of Earth,” and this specific version can be found online through the Cherokee Phoenix. On a personal note, my great-grandmother was Cherokee, so this myth holds a special significance for me. However, it also holds significance for the American people as well.

This creation myth focuses on the story of Thunder, “Ruler of all the Universe,” and how he appointed his best friend eagle as “Ruler of all animals” and the “Ruler of the Earth” regardless of if they flew, crawled, or walked on all fours (2003, par 1; par 22; par 2). Featuring the theme of Divine Creation and Role of the Gods, as eagle is given the power to not only rule them, but to grant any request, if he deems it suitable, that any animal has. One of my favorite things about this myth is that it is used to explain why certain animals behave in certain ways, and how that behavior is interpreted by the Cherokee. For, after the eagle calls a council of all the animals on the Mountain Top, had them divided by tribe, or species if you will, he asked the animals what they wished to do. The mockingbird requested the ability to learn and sing every bird song, so that he could make people think there were lots of birds around, evidencing the Cherokee’s understanding of how mockingbirds gained the power to imitate other birds.

Photo Courtesy of Public Domain  

This myth also evidences the divine connection, power, leadership, and freedom of the eagle in modern symbolism. By establishing the eagle as an authority figure that is charged with managing and ruling the animal world by the “Ruler of the Universe,” evidencing the divine connection, power, and leadership with which the eagle is now viewed with (2003, par1). However, the most significant symbolism comes from the eagle being empowered to reshape the animal world itself and having the ability to grant the animals their desires, highlighting the concepts of freedom and even new beginnings. Though this myth is just one of many Native American myths that feature eagles, I feel this one beautifully captures how myths can influence not just cultural understanding but modern interpretations and symbolism. The eagle holds a significant place of honor within America, serving as a patriotic symbol of freedom, power, and strength, which makes me wish that this myth had been included within our academic studies. It allows us to connect with America’s native roots and to understand how the eagle evolved in modern America.

 

Works Cited:

Phoenix Archives. (2003, November 7). Thunder appoints Eagle Ruler of earth. Cherokee Phoenix. https://www.cherokeephoenix.org/culture/thunder-appoints-eagle-ruler-of-earth/article_7d699c5a-6518-5708-a967-8bd4f45e0ff4.html