<p>This richly illustrated book recounts the stories behind the magnificent totem poles and traditional houses on display in the Grand Hall at the Canadian Museum of Civilization. The stories that surround the human, animal and supernatural figures that appear on Native totem poles, in housefront paintings and in sculptures are vividly retold and interpreted according to their symbolic meaning. The importance of myths today is explored: because myths represent archetypes, or patterns of life and thought, they are universally valid, and reveal the dynamic processes at work within the human psyche. Raven`s Village gives insight into the traditional lifestyle of the six cultural groups represented in the exhibition - the Coast Salish, Nuu-Chah-Nulth, Central Coast, Nuxalk, Haida and Tsimshian. The book also describes the reconstructed archaeological dig at the far end of the Grand Hall. The dig represents over 5,000 years of Native habitation, and illustrates many strong cultural traditions that continue to find expression in the modern world.</p>

Raven's Village: The Myths, Arts and Traditions of Native People from the Pacific Northwest Coast

Arts & Photography

Ruddell, Nancy

History & Criticism

Canadian Museum of History

<p>This is the second of three volumes on the history of the Native people of Canada as revealed by archaeological evidence. Over 12,000 years of Native history preceded the arrival of Europeans. Volume II examines developments across Canada such as the gradual replacement of the earlier spear-thrower by the bow and arrow. Pottery was introduced from the south 3,000 years ago; a thousand years later silver was being fashioned into ornaments. Burial mound ritual spread from the south to eastern Canada, the communal hunting of bison became increasingly important on the Plains, and large pit house village occupied the salmon rivers on the Canadian Plateau. In addition, during this period the first evidence of ranked societies composed of slaves, commoners, and nobles appeared on the West Coast, and the Palaeo-Eskimo art approached its pinnacle. It is hoped that these volumes will contribute to a greater appreciation of Native history prior to the devastating events initiated by the European occupation of Canada. James V. Wright is Curator Emeritus with the Canadian Museum of Civilization.</p>

Mystery of the Maya: The Golden Age of the Classic Maya

History

Americas

Canadian Mus of Civilization

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Books by Ruddell, Nancy