Hupa texts / by Pliny Earle Goddard.

  • Goddard, Pliny Earle, 1869-1928.
Date:
1904
Catalogue details

Licence: In copyright

Credit: Hupa texts / by Pliny Earle Goddard. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    young mothers that they might treat their children more kindly. The texts relating to the dances and feasts, which form the second part, were secured that it might be known what the Hupa himself thinks of the origins and purposes of his great religious ceremonies. The last portion of the collection consists of what may be called formulas for want of a better name. In their particular form they are perhaps peculiar to this culture area. These formulas may be thought to exert their power in one or all of three ways. The spirit of the recitor may be viewed as under- going the journey and hardships undergone by the originator of the medicine and in a vicarious manner meriting favor; the good-will of the originator of the medicine may be aroused by the recital of his deeds; or the very words themselves may be thought to have the power of self-fulfillment. Most of the texts here given were collected during two visits to the Hupa in the summer and fall of 1901. A few were obtained in the summer of 1902, and still others were added in October of the same year. The texts were taken down from the lips of the narrator in the presence of an interpreter who made sure that all was recorded in proper order. Interlinear translations were made with the aid of the interpreter. The words occurring in the text have since been carefully studied by comparing them with the same words occurring elsewhere in the texts. Especial study has been made of the verbs, as many forms as possible having been secured by questioning. No changes have been made in the texts in editing, except where errors of the ear or hand were evident. Oscar Brown seiwed as interpreter for the texts x*ecorded in the summer of 1901. These were revised by the aid of his brother, Samuel Brown, who served as interpreter in recording most of the remaining texts. James Marshall assisted with many of the texts, especially those recorded from his wife, Mary Marshall. Miss Ada C. Baldwin (Mrs. David Masten) was able to give especially valuable help because of her knowledge of English. Julius Marshall has in many cases suggested correct renderings for the Indian words. To these Hupa thanks are due for their patience and interest in this most difficult task of preserving the language and lore of their people.