Zuni Folktales · Chapter
How the Coyotes Tried to Steal the Children of the Sacred Dance explained
The old Coyote of Cedar Canyon discovers the children of the god K'yamakwe playing on Thunder Mountain and plots to steal them.
What happens
The old Coyote of Cedar Canyon discovers the children of the god K'yamakwe playing on Thunder Mountain and plots to steal them. After consulting his wife, he rallies four tribes of Coyotes to help. They attempt to form a chain up the cliff, but a sneeze causes them all to fall and be flattened. The warrior of the Kâkâ, the Long Horn, arrives, skins the surviving Coyotes, and from then on dancers wear coyote-skin collars.
Themes in this chapter
Folklore vs. Science
The tale uses mythological explanation for ceremonial regalia, contrasting with empirical understanding.
Sacrifice and Consequence
The Coyotes' hubris and failed plan lead to their deaths and the permanent use of their skins.
Characters to notice
- Coyote
The old Coyote of Cedar Canyon who discovers the K'yamakwe children and organizes the failed theft.
- Coyotes
The four tribes of Coyotes who assemble and attempt to climb Thunder Mountain in a chain.
- Grandmother Spider
Not present in this chapter.
Key passages
“I must capture the little fellows tomorrow, and bring them up as Coyotes ought to be brought up.”
The Coyote decides to kidnap the K'yamakwe children and raise them as his own.
Shows the Coyote's arrogance and misguided ambition.
“Hang tight, my friends, everyone of you, and everyone fall in line. Eructate thoroughly before you do so.”
The Coyote instructs the others to belch before forming a chain to avoid losing grip.
Highlights the absurdity and physical humor of the plan.