Setting & Background
What existed before the earth was created?
A vast ocean and a great sky void
Who fell through the hole in the Sky-World?
The pregnant woman (Sky Woman)
What animal offered its back for the Sky Woman to land on?
The great sea turtle
Which twin was born in the “normal” way?
The right-handed twin
What does the story show about the Iroquois view of animals?
Animals are wise, helpful, and respected
Where did the gods who looked like Iroquois live?
Sky-World
Who dug into the roots of the Great Tree?
The Sky Woman’s husband
How did the earth begin to grow?
The woman walked in a circle on the turtle’s back with soil
How did the left-handed twin enter the world?
Through his mother’s armpit, killing her
What does Sky Woman’s fall suggest about the role of women in creation?
Women are life-givers and vital to creation
What kind of beings lived in the Sky-World?
Gods who were like humans/Iroquois
What did the woman carry with her as she fell?
Bits of roots and plants
What natural direction did the woman walk that’s still followed in ceremonies?
The direction the sun moves (clockwise)
What do the twins represent in Iroquois belief?
Opposing but necessary forces (balance)
What do the plant roots she carried symbolize?
The potential for new life and growth
What sacred object stood in the center of the Sky-World?
The Great Tree
Who eventually brought up the soil from the bottom of the ocean?
The muskrat
What grew from the mother’s head after her death?
Corn, beans, and squash
Give one example of a creation by the right-handed twin and a counter by the left-handed twin.
Deer vs. mountain lion, ground squirrel vs. weasel, etc.
What does the death of the mother lead to in the story?
The growth of sacred plants and food for the people
What does the Sky-World symbolize in Iroquois beliefs about creation and the divine?
A spiritual realm or heavenly origin of life, above the physical world
What title was given to the muskrat for his role in creation?
The Earth-Diver
Why are corn, beans, and squash called “the three sisters”?
They are companion crops and traditional Iroquois staple foods
Why do the Iroquois honor both twins instead of labeling one as purely evil?
They believe both forces are needed for balance in nature and life
What major Iroquois value is reflected in the contest between the twins?
The need for balance, not just victory of good over evil