Zuni

Zuni is a pueblo like no other. Their ceremonies are distinctive and unique (and well-documented!!!). Their religion is perhaps the most complex of all the Pueblo peoples. The Zunian language is like no other American Indian language. They call themselves A'shiwi , which means "the People." Is it true the first European they encountered was a black man -- who was he? How did they first encounter the Spanish? How does Zuni history relate to Hawiku? Where is Zuni anyhow?

What about their social organization? Shalako is one of their most striking and important ceremonies -- when does it happen & what is the focus? What are Zuni fetishes & how are they used traditionally? One of the best ways to get a glimpse of their ceremonial life is to see the mural paintings that Alex and his son are working on in the old church. Check that out! (Ask John for his article on the murals published in Native Peoples magazine.)

Details are important, but don't get lost in them...imagine that you are researching to write an overview of Zuni for an encyclopedia article. Interesting history, exotic culture, fascinating religion, striking art...this should be a great topic to research....

Bibliography:

Bahti. Southwestern Indian Ceremonials

Bahti. Southwestern Indians

Handbook of the North American Indian (R 970.004 H19)

Mails. Pueblo Children of the Earth Mother

Native America in the 20^th Century (R 970.00497 N21)

Native America Today (R 970.00497 P93n)

Sando. Pueblo Nations

see also the Pueblo jewelry bibliography
see also the Pueblo pottery bibliography