Question

From whose point of view is this version of the Maori origin myth told?

Answer 1

The Māori tribe migrated to New Zealand by canoe from Polynesia (the numerous islands in the South Pacific) sometime before the 1300s. This creation story probably came to New Zealand with the Māori from their previous home. Because the development of Māori culture was recorded orally for many generations, the story changed over time and across regions and subgroups of the tribe, so that several different versions of the Māori creation myth exist today. However, the main events of the myth are the same: the sky and earth gods are separated by their children to form the universe.

This particular retelling of the Māori creation story takes some of the well-known events of the myth and combines them in a story which is told in an unusual way—as if it is coming straight from the mouth of one of the Māori gods. As you read, consider what you might infer about the people who would have accepted or retold this particular version of the myth. What beliefs and values are shown in the details of this myth?

Answer 2

giving medals