Wirrarika Literature

European culture is mostly praised because of its contribution to the modern canon. Regardless of that, Mesoamerican indigenous communities, such as the Wirrarikas, have established a substantial influence in the development of actual Latinamerican people.

The presence of the huicholes tribe in México, particularly in Jalisco, is a clear evidence that the culture of the natives is still respected. The myth of fire is one of the most important ones, and therefore, it will be the center of this day´s blog entry.

Tatewari was born when the earth shook for the fifth time. Before him, it is said that in the Middle World darkness ruled. There was no light for the animal kingdom until Tatewari spread his flames all over the place.

After his grand entrance, Tatewari brought good omens to the huichol tribe. He eventually sacrificed Masha the deer and offered his meat to the other animals. The animals didn´t like the cooked meat and since then preferred their food raw.

Tatewari left the animals, but those who remained where urged by The Wind to kill Tatewari for his actions against Masha. The animals proved to be no match for Tatewari for he dodged all of the arrows that were released against him. Only The Morning Light was able to lodge an arrow into Tatewari. For his actions, The Morning Light was sentenced to guard Hell for an eternity.
A huge fire soon was made by the Tlacuache, an animal that stole fire which was created by Tatewari.

I think there is a very big Greek style in these myths in some things: the oppulence of the gods vs mortals, the explanation of natural phenomena through myths, and the distinction of the virtues of a warrior.

Creation is another key point for the huicholes. There is a constant thought about what triggered the beginning of the world, and because of this they make stories about the creation.