Legends of Gods and Ghosts (Hawaiian Mythology) / Collected and Translated from the Hawaiian

Name: Legends of Gods and Ghosts (Hawaiian Mythology) / Collected and Translated from the Hawaiian
Author: W. D. Westervelt

By W. D. Westervelt

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Mythology, Legends & Folklore

About This Book

The volume gathers Hawaiian myths and translations that range from ghost tales and underworld journeys to accounts of gods, shark-spirits, dragon-like beings, and ancestral aumakua. Narratives and nature-myths explain island phenomena and ritual practice, including canoe-making rites, temple ghosts, tests of the dead, and brides from the underworld. Complementary material offers pronunciation guidance, notes on customs and sacrifices, illustrations, and appendices detailing family-ghosts, dragon deities, and Hawaiian terms, providing a structured presentation of traditional stories and ceremonial contexts.

About the Author

W. D. Westervelt

W. D. Westervelt was an American author and translator known for his significant contributions to the preservation of Hawaiian mythology and folklore. His works often focus on the rich tapestry of Hawaiian legends, reflecting the culture and traditions of the islands. Among his notable publications are "Hawaiian Historical Legends" and "Legends of Ma-ui—a demi god of Polynesia, and of his mother Hina." Westervelt's translations and collections serve as important resources for understanding the spiritual and cultural narratives of Hawaii, making him a key figure in the documentation of Polynesian mythology.