As you fight your way through the thick fauna of the Amazon forest, you run into a wide-eyed tour guide who has lost his group and, like you, has been wandering for days.  Desperate to impart his knowledge to someone, anyone, he begins to tell you about the early centuries of Brazilian literature:

“In its early centuries of existence, Brazil was primitive and dangerous; there was little time or opportunity for book learning or writing, and very little in the way of literature was produced.  However, folklore, both oral and written, flourished in Brazil’s Amazonian tribes.  This folklore is present in nearly every important Brazilian writer down to the present day.  Brazilian folklore consists of a blend of Negro superstitions (these people had been brought to Brazil to work as slaves), witchcraft, and Indian legends.  It is characterized by an intense fascination with nature and supernatural elements inherited from Portuguese ancestors.”

Before your part ways with the tour guide, he leaves you with a mission:

1. You must visit two websites:

http://www.sumauma.net/amazonian/index.html

http://www.maria-brazil.org/myths.htm

Read all of the Amazonian legends from both of these sites (there are six or so short ones on each site).

2. After you have read the myths and legends, ask yourself several questions:

What characteristics do these folktales have in common?
Are there any folktales within your community?  Amongst you and your friends?  Your family?
What interests you most about these folktales (the creatures, the tone, the mood, etc.)?

3. Next, taking an even, a person, or even a favorite possession from your own life, and construct
your own folktale.  For example, you could write about the fantastic origins of your pet dog Petey or  the amazing five layer cake your grandmother made for your 13th birthday.  Remember to incorporate the characteristics and themes you have encountered in the Amazonian folktales you have read into your own folktale.  Take into special consideration your own culture and family traditions.  Before you move on to your next challenge, you must show your folktale to the Gods for approval.  Don’t be afraid to be creative or to (gasp!) HAVE FUN!

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