What does the myth say? The story of Jumping Mouse is a primal myth that describes Mouse's life and the adventure he embarks on. On this journey his spirit transforms from Mouse, to Jumping Mouse, to Eagle through trials and deeds to accomplish. Throughout the story, Mouse overcomes his reservations, gains additional perspective about other beings, and decides that a personal sacrifice to help beings seen as Greater than himself is the right thing to do. He is then rewarded handsomely through a transformation into Eagle after giving up both eyes to heal two characters, Buffalo and Wolf. Through this process, he learns multiple lessons. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay How might the author make the myth seem effective or convincing? The author has made this myth convincing by following essential methodologies to write a hero's story. A coherent story was told that followed a central "hero", Mouse, and included additional characters to help the plot advance. Furthermore, the myth included common narrative details. For example, there was a call to action from Frog, a crux after losing his eyes, and a final resolution where Jumping Mouse transforms into Eagle. Additionally, the author implemented the lessons as Mouse developed spiritual maturity, gained appreciation for beings Greater than himself, and became more willing to make sacrifices for the greater good. Second, the author may have used oral traditions common in early religions that involve not transcribing the myth into textual form. From the writing style one can reasonably assume that this story was transcribed as a single version of the story, dictated and possibly translated directly into English, without any major alterations. This improves the story's ability to resonate with readers, as the assumption that the story is just as it would be told increases authenticity and legitimacy. Why might the author have chosen to create this myth? The author may have created this myth to highlight two main characteristics of primordial religious teachings: animism and groundedness. Emphasizes animism as Mouse recognizes that Buffalo and Wolf are "Higher Beings" and that all animals and places such as the Great River and Great Medicine Lake have spirits. It further accentuates the inclusion as the spirits highlighted in the tale are everywhere, as all the characters and settings described have an implied meaning. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Secondly, this myth may have been shaped to reinforce ideologies of faith, perseverance, trust, personal growth, generosity, and more. This is evident through the growth Mouse experiences as he completes his quest. He is extremely hesitant at first, but over the course of his journey he improves key attributes that are highly prized in primal religious teachings. For example, he demonstrates trust and faith by starting the journey Frog undertakes, respect for elders through his treatment of Old Mouse, and generosity by giving up his sight for the sake of the Higher Beings. The story highlights his personal growth and would show the community that by following these ideologies, the surrounding spirits will ensure that some form of benefit is reaped. Bibliography: Anonymous. 1994. "The Story of the Leaping Mouse." In the Wisdom of the World, by Philip Novak, 373-379. New York: HarperCollins Publishers. September 26, 2018