There are several similarities and differences regarding how animals use personification to achieve a specific purpose across several Native American tales. Many animals are sacred throughout Native American cultures. The animals in the tales also have different meanings.
In the Native American tale, “The Earth on Turtle’s Back,” the animals created Earth. Each animal has it’s own personality; some were more courageous and determined than others. The muskrat in the tale was the bravest and most determined animal. She says, “I will bring up Earth or die trying.” All of the animals worked together to bring up the Earth from the bottom of the ocean. The tale shows how working together is important to Native Americans.
In the tale, “When Grizzlies
