μῦθοι Mythoi
Motif
Filed across the traditions
  • Lithuanian Balys Index No. *320
  • India *Thompson-Balys
  • N. Am. Indian Thompson Tales 276 n. 19.
  • general Köhler notes to Gonzenbach Sicilianische Märchen No. 15. Greek: Hesiod Works and Days lines 81–-104. – England: Baughman
Within the index

Filed under Tabu: looking into certain receptacle.

2 finer motifs beneath it
Tabu: opening too much of magic box at a time. A priest gives a prince a sealed packet which he is to open in time of distress. He must open only one portion at a time Tabu: opening gift box prematurely
Filed beside it
Tabu: looking into bag Tabu: looking into flask. Man given magic flask on condition that he never look into it Tabu: looking into jug. Woman does so and finds mouse in it Tabu: looking into the pots in hell Tabu: looking under certain bell too soon Tabu: looking into basket Tabu: opening corpse-wrapping
Travels with (Thompson’s cf.)
Death by smothering for breaking tabu. Man given secret box conveying the power of making women love him. He disobeys warning and opens it. The women smother him to death. (Cf. C321.)
Keeps company with — shares receipted episodes
Creator's grandmother. Casually mentioned in the course of the creation myth Divinity's departure for west Culture hero's (divinity's) expected return. Divinity or hero is expected to return at the proper time and rescue his people from their misfortunes. Often joined with A571 Boneless man turned over to produce seasons Magic airships Magic canoe. (Cf. D1121.) Canoe made by magic Waters magically divide and close Love-compelling man sickens of bargain. A man given the power of making all women love him is smothered to death by them Rising and falling sky. Sky rises and falls at horizon, giving periodic access to the other world Modesty brings reward Kind and unkind. Churlish person disregards requests of old person (animal) and is punished. Courteous person (often youngest brother or sister) complies and is rewarded
Carried in tale types

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