I am not looking for cryptid hunters views on Skinwalkers or the myth/folklore stories of various nations. I am looking for articles and genuine research on the belief in Skinwalkers or other supernatural elements in various American cultures.
by Hothtastic
3 Comments
In Braiding Sweetgrass, Robin Wall Kimmerer writes about the Wendigo.
I don’t have any specific titles, but here are some suggestions:
– Narrow down to a specific region or culture (especially if you’re interested in a local one – I’m sure there’ll be people who’d love to talk to you!)
– Check out university presses who specialize in either Indigenous topics or folklore (University of Indiana has a folklore department, iirc, but I don’t recall what their specialty is.)
– Some Indigenous peoples would rather not talk to outsiders about their beliefs, or have outsiders talk about them. This includes the Navajo, who have a robust corpus of oral storytelling, but who view time as an essential factor in it, and for whom telling stories at an incorrect time of year (for instance) is… something they would rather not happen. Likewise, there are Indigenous groups who don’t want anyone naming certain entities, due to belief that it will invite malevolent entities into their/your life. You might encounter similar situations if you’re looking; it’s considered good academic form to accept this, and to leave the matter at that.
Hope you find what you’re looking for!
Following to see recs!