What does the myth say? The story of Jumping Mouse is a primordial myth depicting the life of Mouse and the adventure he embarks on. During this journey, his spirit transforms from Mouse, to Jumping Mouse, then to Eagle through tests and deeds that had to be accomplished. Over the course of the narrative, Mouse overcomes his reservations, gains additional perspective on other beings, and decides that personal sacrifice to help beings considered greater than himself is the right thing to do. He is therefore largely rewarded by a transformation into an Eagle after having abandoned his two eyes to treat 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 Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay How can the author make the myth effective or compelling? The author has made this myth compelling by following methodologies essential to writing a hero's tale. A cohesive story was told that followed a central "hero", Mouse, and included additional characters to advance the plot. Additionally, the myth included common narrative details. For example, there was a call to action from Frog, a crucial low point after losing his eyes, and a final resolution where Jumping Mouse transforms into Eagle. Additionally, the author implemented lessons as Mouse developed spiritual maturity, appreciated 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 primitive religions that involve not recording the myth in text form. It is reasonable to assume, based on the writing style, that this story was transcribed as a single version of the tale, dictated and eventually translated directly into English, without any major edits. This improves the story's ability to resonate with readers, because the assumption that the story is as it would be told increases authenticity and legitimacy. Why would the author choose to create this myth? The author may have created this myth to highlight two major characteristics of primordial religious teachings: animism and embeddedness. It 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. This further emphasizes the rootedness since the spirits highlighted in the tale are everywhere, because all the characters and all the settings described have an implicit meaning. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Secondly, this myth may have been designed to reinforce ideologies of faith, perseverance, confidence, personal growth, generosity, etc. This is seen through the growth Mouse experiences as he completes his quest. He begins extremely hesitant, but throughout his journey improves on key attributes highly valued in early religious teachings. For example, he shows trust and faith in beginning the journey described by Frog, respect for elders in the way he treats Old Mouse, and generosity in giving up his sight for the sake of higher beings. The story highlights one's personal growth and would show a community that by following these ideologies, the surrounding minds will ensure the reaping of some form of benefits.Bibliography:Anonymous. 1994. “The Story of the Jumping Mouse.” In Wisdom 26, 2018