The Taming of the Sun - Analysis
Summary
This myth is about the Hawaiian demigod Maui. The sun (who was also a god) moved too fast for anyone to get work done during the day. As such, Maui goes on a quest to tame the sun and make him stay in the sky longer. He traps the sun, and convinces him to move slower across the sky during the summer. This myth is used as an explanation for seasons.
PMAI Archetypes
Maui shows qualities of a balanced magician. He sees that the sun’s attitude needs changed, and sets out to make a difference. He doesn’t dedicate himself to this cause for personal gain, but rather for those around him. He is able to easily convinces those around him that it’s possible, instilling faith or inspiring them to help. He is a catalyst for change, and eventually convinces the sun to change his ways.
The sun has qualities of an imbalanced sage. His selfishness is what brought about the need for this quest. He only thinks about himself, and lacks empathy for others. He disconnects himself from those around him, and considers others to be lesser than himself. He’s also dogmatic, and insists that things must be his way.
Questions for Heroic Myths:
Who is the Hero?
Maui is the hero. He sets out to make life better for those around him. He goes on a quest and completes it. He is even willing to risk his life for this cause. We also see the myth through his perspective.
Who is the Mentor?
Maui’s mother, Hina-of-the-Fire, is the mentor. She imparts knowledge of where Maui must go, and to seek help from his grandmother. As his mother, she naturally has an unconditional parental love for Maui. This can also be seen in how she believes that he has a shot at completing this quest, despite stating that it is a great task that no ordinary person could accomplish. Additionally, her role in Maui’s quest diminishes as time goes on.
Who is the Companion?
Personally, I feel that Maui’s grandmother also fits the mentor archetype. However, she’s the only character who can fit the role of companion. She’s dedicated to helping Maui accomplish his goal. She also keeps the him on track, making sure he has all that he needs to confront the sun.
Who is the Shadow?
Ironically, the sun is this myth’s shadow character. Where Maui wants the days to be longer, the sun wants to use that time to sleep longer. Even when confronted by Maui, the sun is selfish and doesn’t want to listen. However, the sun eventually accepts a compromise, moving slower in the summer. This is an example of a shadow character that isn’t evil, but is in opposition of the hero.
Who is the Shape-shifter?
With only four characters, no one has the role of shape-shifter. That being said, Maui does have a moment where he steals his grandmother’s bananas to get her attention to ask her for help. While he’s clearly the hero, it’s something you would see a shape-shifter do. From his grandmother’s perspective, things aren’t as they appear, and it would give the appearance of him changing sides from thief to ally.
Who is the Trickster?
This myth has no trickster. However, it is worth noting that Maui is often considered a trickster-hero.
Identify and explain at least three Hero Cycle steps present in this Heroic Myth
Noticing how difficult it was for people to get things done with the sun not in the sky for long was Maui’s Call to Adventure. This is the entire reason for his quest. He came to this conclusion watching his mother take a whole year just to make kapa. It was his desire for something better for those around him that lead him to take on this task. This signals the beginning of all that followed. While not much, Maui does encounter a few challenges on his Road of Trials. He first has to gain the help of his grandmother. Second, he must attain all the materials needed to make rope. Third, he must learn from his grandmother how to make the rope. And finally, he must capture the sun and overcome its opposition. This leads to the Ultimate Boon. He convinces the sun to stay in the sky longer for half of the year. This makes life easier for everyone, and accomplishes what he set out to do. This concludes his quests, and leads to him Crossing the Return Threshold. Upon his return, people celebrate and sing of his great deeds.
