Chinese pig tales: a popular tradition mirrors a people's ambivalent feelings about swine

Article Abstract:

Chinese ambivalence toward the pig is reflected in many folk traditions. The pig may have been the first animal domesticated by the Chinese. Earlier the wild boar was noted for its ferocity, and many parts of the boar were reputed to have therapeutic effects. The pig came to symbolize wealth and fertility, played a role in burial practices, and was regarded as a protector of children and those born under its zodiacal sign. In the tale 'Xiyou ji' ('Journey to the West') the Pig character is depicted as gluttonous, cowardly, and simple.

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Reflections on the Bluewater people

Article Abstract:

The Great Sage Plain was the center of Pueblo philosophy and a large number of kivas are a testimony to the spirituality of this place. Kivas have many functions in modern pueblos as there are kivas for rites of passage, for preserving religious items, for dancing, healing and nourishment of corn, squash and beans. Kivas symbolize a link between spiritual and physical life.

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Secrets of the rain forest; Panama's trackless wilderness yields evidence of gold mining and an indigenous people destroyed by Spanish invaders

Article Abstract:

Archaeological evidence at Darien , Panama, suggesting that indigenous tribes occupied Darien, Panama before the Spaniards came in 1517 is discussed. Gold deposits attracted the Spaniards and may also have been exploited by the Indians.

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