Transformation

The myths and legends of almost all peoples take for granted a close interaction between human beings and other animals, plants and non-living forms such as stars, rocks, mountains, and rivers. In myths, all life is sentient and wise, and humans and animals retain these qualities as they switch identities. Even the stars and other cosmic phenomena have human origins and ties. The stories in this section exemplify this theme of human connecedness with all the universe.

In this section, you may read:

1. The Crane Wife (Japan)
2. Athena and Arachne (Greece)
3. The Dancing Children (North America: The Onondaga)
4. Chih-nii, the Heavenly Spinner (China)
5. Orion and the Sisters (Greece)