Horned Serpent
Also called HornedSerpent.
The Horned Serpent appears in various Indigenous American mythologies, often depicted as a large snake with antlers. It is known for its wisdom and connection to the water, showcasing a sagacious nature and a mysterious presence, embodying the ancient and the elemental in serpents
At a glance
- Tradition
- Native American folklore
- Region
- Indigenous American (unspecified) (place of origin)
- Trait family
- The Rain-Serpents
- Symbols
- Snake
Near this figure
and 4 more
Symbols
Judged against the description by a model. Meanings are our own paraphrase.
- Snake is Snake is a broad serpent symbol of creation and guardianship; South American traditions name Snake a primordial earth-maker and giver of hunting arts.
why
The Horned Serpent appears in various Indigenous American mythologies, often depicted as a large snake with antlers.
Traits
Read from the figure's description, which a model wrote. Open "why" for the sentence a trait came from.
Form
- Serpentine elongated body
why
Often depicted as a massive snake adorned with antlers or horns, this entity embodies the convergence of earth and water, symbolizing the intricate balance of nature.
Behaviour
- Controls drought and flood
why
It is believed to possess ancient knowledge of the earth's secrets and the ability to control weather patterns, particularly those related to water.
- Punishes those who pollute or overharvest water
why
In some stories, it acts as a judge, punishing those who take more than they need or pollute the waters.
Offensive powers
- Weather manipulation
why
It is believed to possess ancient knowledge of the earth's secrets and the ability to control weather patterns, particularly those related to water.
Utility powers
- Knowledge bestowal
why
The creature's wisdom is often sought in times of drought or flood, with rituals and offerings made to appease its might and gain its favor.
- Healing
why
Some cultures view it as a powerful medicine spirit, capable of bestowing healing powers or curse those who disrespect nature's balance.
Roles
Judged from the works' own entries, not from the description. Carries: the figure holds the role. Meets: the role is in its stories, held by something it meets.
- Serpent carries both readings
2 citations
- Carol Rose, Giants, Monsters, and Dragons, s.v. "Horned Serpent."
- Theresa Bane, Encyclopedia of Beasts and Monsters in Myth, Legend and Folklore, s.v. "Horned Serpent."
- Hero meets
2 citations
- Carol Rose, Giants, Monsters, and Dragons, s.v. "Horned Serpent."
- Theresa Bane, Encyclopedia of Beasts and Monsters in Myth, Legend and Folklore, s.v. "Horned Serpent."