Magic Hunt with the Forest Spirits according to Siberian Folklore Data

The article focuses on interdisciplinary study of one folklore plot among three indigenous peoples of Siberia: Selkup, Khanty and Ket. Some stories reflect beliefs in the magic hunt with forest spirits among most native peoples of Siberia. These stories differ from fairy tales because they were perceived as real events. Forest spirits also called "forest people" are imagined anthropomorphic creatures establishing a balance of reciprocity based on business and sexual relationship with hunters. It is possible to present information on forest spirits describing their appellation, appearance, and functions. According to the indigenous folklore, forest spirits or people are threefold creatures as they have anthropomorphic, zoomorphic and supernatural features. Anthropomorphic features reflect man-like or womanlike appearance, human behavior and activities. Zoomorphic features reflect a possibility to transform into an animal (squirrel, sable, moose, or deer) or to possess zoomorphic details like horns or fur. Supernatural features include the ability to transform; to disappear instantly if they see that they are being looked at; they can make all animals disappear; they can make a hunter to acquire or lose his/her hunting luck. The stories on the magic hunt romanced hunting activities by eliminating borders between sacred and profane. Forest male and female spirits acquired anthropomorphic features while serving as hunting and sexual partners to indigenous peoples of both sexes who persuaded their hunting luck (the Selkup term fane). This luck could include a few different forms: abundant animals at hunter's trail and easy and successful kill, or just picking game up; supernatural hunting skills and understanding animals' behavior and language. The hunters acquire kine in exchange for specific obligations that are reflected in behavioral patterns, taboo, and rituals: making offerings to the host of the forest; keeping hunting gear away from women; avoiding talking about hunting plans and transmitting hunting skills orally. Siberian hunting luck is based on the principle of reciprocity involving two groups of participants - hunters and supernatural creatures. Thus, the magic hunt with forest spirits is a Siberian hunting tradition reflected nowadays in folklore and based on a desire to be successful in hunting through a relationship of reciprocity with supernatural creatures. Commonalities in Selkup, Khanty and Ket folklore on the magic hunt lead to the conclusion that it originated from one and the same source.

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