Frank Hamilton Cushing 
Outlines of Zuñi Creation Myths 

In ‘Outlines of Zuñi Creation Myths’ by Frank Hamilton Cushing, readers are invited to explore the rich storytelling tradition of the Zuñi people. This insightful book delves into the origin stories, beliefs, and mythological creatures that form the foundation of Zuñi cosmology. Cushing’s writing style is descriptive and immersive, vividly portraying the mystical world of the Zuñi creation myths. The book offers valuable insights into Native American literature and mythology, making it a must-read for those interested in folklore and cultural studies. Cushing’s meticulous research and deep respect for Zuñi tradition shine through in this captivating collection of creation myths. Frank Hamilton Cushing, a pioneering anthropologist, lived among the Zuñi people in the late 19th century, gaining first-hand knowledge of their culture and beliefs. His close relationship with the community allowed him to document and preserve their oral traditions, including the captivating creation myths presented in this book. Cushing’s dedication to understanding and respecting indigenous cultures is evident throughout his work, making him a respected figure in the field of anthropology. I highly recommend ‘Outlines of Zuñi Creation Myths’ to readers who are fascinated by Native American culture, folklore, and mythology. Cushing’s meticulous research and engaging writing style make this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the rich storytelling traditions of the Zuñi people.

Sobre el autor

Frank Hamilton Cushing (1857–1900) was an American anthropologist and ethnologist, renowned for his significant contributions to the study of Indigenous cultures of the Southwestern United States, particularly the Zuñi people. Born on July 22, 1857, in Northeastern Pennsylvania, Cushing showed an early talent for the study of artifacts and natural history. His devotion to fieldwork led him to become one of the pioneer participant-observers in anthropology, when, at the tender age of 22, he commenced living with the Zuñi people. During his five-year stay commencing in 1879, he was initiated into the tribe, a testament to the deep relationships he fostered and the cultural insights he gained (Lange, 1993). His intricate understanding of Zuñi culture and languages enabled him to write numerous influential works, but perhaps none is more significant than ‘Outlines of Zuñi Creation Myths’ (Cushing, 1896), which provided a comprehensive glimpse into the complex cosmogony and spiritual life of the Zuñi. Cushing’s approach was characterized by empathetic immersion, detailed observation, and a literary style that sought not just to describe, but to evoke the lived reality of the Zuñi world (Hinsley, 1981). Alongside his fieldwork, Cushing contributed to the establishment of the discipline of American anthropology and the study of Southwest Indigenous cultures. Tragically, his life and work were cut short when he died on April 10, 1900, but his pioneering methods and literary depictions of Indigenous life have left an indelible mark on both anthropology and ethnography.