Based on the world on turtle's back, which statement best describes the iroquois attitude toward nature and the environment?

General
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based on the world on turtle’s back, which statement best describes the iroquois attitude toward nature and the environment?

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Based on “The World on the Turtle’s Back,” which statement best describes the Iroquois attitude toward nature and the environment?

Answer:

Within the Iroquois creation myth “The World on the Turtle’s Back,” the Iroquois people express a deep respect and reverence for nature and the environment. This respect is evident in various elements of the story, which illustrate the interconnectedness of humans, animals, and the natural world. Here is a detailed analysis to support the statement:

1. Reverence for Natural Elements:

  • The story begins with the Sky Woman’s descent from the sky world to the waters below. The animals, including birds, fish, and others, collaborate to find a place for her to land by bringing up dirt from the bottom of the ocean.
  • Once the dirt is placed on the turtle’s back, it grows into the Earth, demonstrating the sacred task the animals undertake to create a place for humans.

2. Interdependence and Harmony:

  • The creation tale highlights the concept of balance and harmony within the natural world. For instance, the right-handed and left-handed twins that Sky Woman’s daughter gives birth to represent dual forces in nature. Both twins contribute to the world’s creation, engendering a balance of good and evil, night and day, and other dualities essential for the Earth’s sustenance.

3. Sacredness of Animals:

  • Animals play pivotal roles in the creation and sustenance of the world. The muskrat, for example, risks its life to dive deep into the ocean to retrieve soil, highlighting its revered role in the creation of the Earth.
  • Similarly, the turtle offers its back as a foundation for the new world, reflecting the Iroquois’ belief in the sacredness and contributions of animals to human existence.

4. Rituals and Practices:

  • The Iroquois’ respect toward nature is also reflected in their cultural practices that stem from the story. Ceremonies and rituals often involve elements of nature, focusing on offering thanks and maintaining harmony with the environment.

5. Ecology and Sustainability:

  • The Iroquois creation myth implies that the people should live in accordance with nature and sustain it for future generations. Every element within the story, from the creation of plants and animals to the formation of the seasons, echoes a deep-seated philosophy of ecological balance and sustainability.

Solution by Steps:

  1. Respect for Natural Elements:

    • The story starts with the Sky Woman seeking land and being helped by animal allies.

  2. Interdependence and Harmony:

    • The twins’ creation contributes to a balanced world despite their opposing natures.

  3. Sacredness of Animals:

    • Key animals like the muskrat and turtle are vital to the myth and respected for their roles.

  4. Rituals and Practices:

    • Cultural rituals derived from the story emphasize thanksgiving and harmony with nature.

  5. Ecology and Sustainability:

    • The myth promotes living sustainably and in balance with nature.

Final Answer:
The best statement to describe the Iroquois attitude toward nature and the environment, as depicted in “The World on the Turtle’s Back,” is that they view nature with profound respect and see all elements of the natural world as interconnected, vital, and to be honored. The Iroquois believe in living harmoniously with nature, maintaining balance and sustainability in their relationship with the environment.