Folklore and the aurora

Abstract

The Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon of striking beauty and overwhelming presence in certain parts of the world. It is therefore natural to ask what effect these northern lights have had on the native cultures in the auroral zones. Since the sun, moon, and stars all have a place in the mythology of most primitive cultures, it is not surprising that mention of the aurora is prevalent in the legends and folklore of the people who live within regular view of it.This paper does not attempt to delve into all the various historical sightings and accompanying explanations of the aurora but rather to relate some of the myths and legends built around the northern lights. There exist extensive listings of historical references to the aurora [Petrie, 1963], but it is not until one consults the folktales of the northern cultures that these sightings have any legendary importance. Auroral displays are connected to and explained by myths of great variety, and even today the northern lights appear in short stories and ballads such as the works of Service [1944].