Mayan Folktales: Folklore from Lake Atitl�n, Guatemala

James D. Sexton , Editor

This collection of folklore offers a rich and lively panorama of Mayan mythic heritage. Here are everyday tales of village life; legends of witches, shamans, spiritualists, tricksters, and devils; fables of naguales, or persons who can change into animal forms; ribald stories of love and life; cautionary tales of strange and menacing neighbors and of the danger lurking within the human heart. These legends narrate origin and creation stories, explain the natural world, and reinforce cultural beliefs and values such as honesty, industriousness, sharing, fairness, and cleverness. Whether tragic or comic, fantastic or earthy, whimsical or profound, these tales capture the mystery, fragility, and power of the Mayan world.

"The collection serves splendidly the purpose of a wide variety of readers." --Choice

" . . . a colorful mélange of myths . . . Sexton's collection reveals an enlightening picture of native Guatemalan culture . . . It provides valuable information on diverse aspects of the culture of Lake Atitlan." --Cultural Survival

"A delightful collection by the eminent anthropologist and his Mayan collaborator. Written in an oral style, filled with ancient wisdom." --NACLA Report on the Americas

James D. Sexton is Regents? Professor of anthropology at Northern Arizona University and is the author of many articles and books on cultural change in Guatemala's highland communities.

6 x 9.25 299 pages