The most pervasive images connected with flight in mythology involve birds. They are animals like ourselves, yet have an enviable command over gravity. Inevitably they were considered to have a special relationship with the forces of nature. They often became forms of the gods, and humans occasionally were transformed into them. They served mankind as guides, companions, messengers and guardians.

Among native tribes throughout North America the eagle, or Thunderbird, was a powerful figure. He was associated with the sky, the sun, thunder and other atmospheric phenomena. Those who were struck by his lightning were either spiritually enlightened or destroyed. In some tribes there were four thunderbirds, one for each of the four directions, and they fought against evil forces. Combat resulted in earthquakes, floods and violent storms.

In a Tlingit story from the northwest coast of North America, an old woman walked along the shore and mourned for not having borne a son. A dolphin heard her weeping and told her to swallow a pebble and drink sea water afterwards. She obeyed and gave birth later to Yehl, the savior of his people. Yehl could appear as man or bird.

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Last modified: Tue Jul 1 15:45:45 PDT 1997

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