Makinak: The Turtle by Wilfred Buck

Summary

The video explores the significance of the constellation Cepheus, known as Magnat the Turtle in Cree culture. This turtle symbolizes a living calendar that reflects the natural cycles of the environment. The turtle's shell, divided into 13 sections, represents the 13 full moons of the year, each linked to seasonal changes and events in nature. Names like Kichipism and Mikasu Piecem mark these lunar phases, illustrating their deep connection to the land. The reverence for the turtle and Grandmother Moon highlights the sacredness of the lunar cycles and the cultural identity of Indigenous peoples, collectively referred to as Turtle Island.

Takeaways

• ⭐ The story centers on the constellation Cepheus, represented by five stars resembling a house outline.
• 🐢 The Cree people refer to the constellation as Magnat, meaning 'the turtle', which serves as a living calendar.
• 🌕 The turtle shell is symbolic, with 13 sections corresponding to the 13 full moons in a lunar cycle.
• 📅 Each full moon occurs every 28 days, marking different seasonal events for the Cree people.
• ❄️ The first moon of winter, Kichipism, signifies the start of January and high winter.
• 🦅 The second moon, Mikasu, is known as the Eagle Moon, indicating the return of eagles from the south.
• 🦢 The third moon, Escapism, is called the Goose Moon, marking the arrival of geese in spring.
• 🐸 The fourth moon, Regis Piece, is recognized as the Frog Moon, celebrating the awakening of frogs from hibernation.
• 🌍 The concept of Turtle Island reflects the shared cultural significance of turtles across various North American cultures.
• 🌙 Grandmothers are revered in Cree culture, symbolized by Grandmother Moon, emphasizing the sacredness of lunar cycles.

Q & A

What does the constellation Cepheus represent in Roman and Greek mythology?

In Roman and Greek mythology, the constellation Cepheus represents a king.

How many stars are used to form the shape of Cepheus?

Cepheus is represented by five stars that outline a silhouette resembling a house.

What is the Cree name for the turtle, and what does it symbolize?

The Cree people refer to the turtle as 'Mackinac,' which symbolizes a living calendar.

How does the turtle's shell relate to the Cree lunar calendar?

The turtle's shell has 13 main sections that correspond to the 13 full moons in a lunar cycle, each separated by 28 days.

What is the significance of the first moon, Kichipism?

Kichipism, or the first moon, occurs in January and marks a period of high winter for the Cree people.

What happens in February according to the Cree lunar calendar?

In February, the second moon is called Mikasu Piescem, or the Eagle Moon, indicating the return of eagles from their southern migration.

What is Escapism, and when does it occur?

Escapism, or the Goose Moon, occurs in March and signifies the return of geese.

What is the significance of the Frog Moon in April?

The Frog Moon, known as Regis Piescem, occurs in April and marks the awakening of frogs from hibernation.

Why do many cultures refer to North America as 'Turtle Island'?

Many cultures across North and South America see the turtle as a significant symbol, leading to the name 'Turtle Island' for the continent.

What role does Grandmother Moon play in Cree culture?

Grandmother Moon is viewed as a sacred being, embodying wisdom and guiding the people through the cycles of nature.