article
Sympathetic magic and witchcraft among the Bellacoola
American anthropologist, new series • 27 • Published In 1925 • Pages: 116-121
By: Smith, Harlan Ingersoll.
Abstract
This document discusses briefly the importance of magic and sorcery in Bellacoola society. The data were obtained by the author primarily from two native informants during the years 1920-1923. Information may be found in this work on: (1) magical practices used to make a child grow up to be a good dancer, industrious, a swift berry picker or a strong man; (2) curing lung troubles by magical means; and (3) magical control of natural elements (river erosion, rain). Various types of sorcery are also discussed. It is interesting to note in this study that both in their magical practices as listed above and in sorcery, the Bellacoola make abundant use of animals and plants as integral parts of the various rituals of magic.
- HRAF PubDate
- 2010
- Region
- North America
- Sub Region
- Northwest Coast and California
- Document Type
- article
- Evaluation
- Creator Type
- Ethnologist
- Document Rating
- 5: Excellent Primary Data
- Analyst
- John Beierle ; 1964-1965: John Beierle; 2010
- Field Date
- 1920-1923
- Coverage Date
- 1920-1923
- Coverage Place
- Bella Coola Reserve, Bella Coola Valley, British Columbia, Canada
- Notes
- by Harlan I. Smith
- LCCN
- 17015424
- LCSH
- Bella Coola Indians