# The Serpent of the Sea explained — Zuni Folktales

> Chapter companion for Zuni Folktales by Frank Hamilton Cushing.

## What happens

A maiden defiles a sacred spring, leading to the appearance of a sea serpent as a child, which brings consequences to the community.

## Themes in this chapter

### Nature and the Supernatural

The sacred spring and the sea serpent embody the intersection of natural elements and supernatural forces.

### Sacrifice and Consequence

The maiden's actions lead to dire consequences, highlighting the theme of actions and their repercussions.

## Character check-ins

### The Maiden

Defiles the sacred spring, triggering the serpent's appearance.

### Kólowissi

The sea serpent that appears as a child after the spring is defiled.

## Key lines

> The Maiden Defiles the Sacred Spring

A young woman pollutes a holy water source, breaking a taboo.

_Sets the conflict in motion._

> The Sea Serpent Appears as a Child

The serpent manifests in the form of a child, signaling supernatural intervention.

_Key event following the defilement._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/zuni_folktales_se/chapters/the-serpent-of-the-sea
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/zuni_folktales_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/zuni_folktales_se/chapters