article

Sympathetic magic and witchcraft among the Bellacoola

American anthropologist, new series27 • 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.
Subjects
Sorcery
Magic
Development and maturation
Ethnozoology
culture
Nuxalk
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