Role Of Waziya In The Mythology Of The Native American Lakota People

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The earliest depiction of extreme height is within mythology where giants play many roles, often representing powerful natural forces that frighten and threaten humans. In the mythology of the Native American Lakota people, Waziya is a northern giant who personifies the north wind, blown from his mouth. While in constant battle with the southern winds, he is responsible for the snow, ice and delights in causing winter deaths. This may be a myth for the Lakota people to explain the seasonal change and a subject to release their anguish at over the devastation of frosted crops and deaths. The English word Giant was coined in 1297 and is commonly used for the monsters of human appearance but phenomenal size and strength, sometimes with a grotesque