Research Topic: Native American Monsters

After some deliberation, and encouragement from Laura, I've decided to choose my research topic as the monsters of Native American folklore. I love the unique beasts those cultures created and warned about, and figure it would be a perfect thing to be getting into come Halloween. So here are some idea's I've got so far.

The sad story of Swift Runner and the Wendigo-
Edmonton Journal
Wikipedia
This is a story I've heard from multiple sources, and is interesting because of the implications due to its real life aspects. There are many sources (of which I'll have to scavenge through to weed out the false ones) that retell the story of Swift Runner, a Cree man who was claimed to be possessed by a Wendigo spirit when he murdered and ate his family. A dark story for certain, but maybe I can throw some kind of twist at the end in which the family defeats the monster or something. That would be a good way to research some more legends around the cannibal spirits and how the natives fought against them.

Hamatsa: The Cannibals Society and the Cannibal
Wikipedia
I also have some previous history of research with the Hamatsa society and the legends surrounding them. The rituals surrounding it are very in depth and shrouded in mystery. As far as how I'd tell the story, it might be written in the view point of a young man being assimilated into the Hamatsa society. That could offer some interesting commentary on the pressures of society on young people to conform. We'll see.

A Hamatsa Shaman in a trance for an initiation Ritual

Photo captured by Edward S. Curtis; Source: Wikimedia Commons

The Long Shadow: Nalusa Falaya
Wikipedia
Choctaw Nation
I did a research project on Nalusa Falaya in the past, so I've already got an idea for what it's about. The difficult part is finding actually stories that aren't complete rubbish. Luckily, I've several friends that are a part of the Choctaw nation, and will hopefully be willing to share some stories they may know. Which brings me to the point that I'll have to be very respectful of these stories because they are deeply ingrained in these cultures.