Oldal 115 [115]
THE IMPACT OF LANDSCAPE AND CLIMATE ON THE DENESULINE RELIGION
daily life of the Denesuline. Furthermore, within their belief system, they also
incorporate natural phenomena by seeking to align themselves with these
forces, aiming to harness their power and attributes such as speed, like we saw
it on the shield painting. This implies a form of spiritual or cultural connection
with nature, where individuals seek to emulate the characteristics of natural
elements to enhance their own abilities or influence their surroundings. Hearne’s
work gives us an insight into this through a bloody example.
I have shown that the environment deeply influenced the Denesuline nation
in many ways, from mythology to their everyday life. In addition to offering
an insight into Denesuine customs and religious beliefs, it has been also pointed
out how these customs and beliefs have been affected by the climate, from
Denesuline burials to their taboo system, to hunting habits. Hearne’s descrip¬
tion also suggests that even women’s reproductive ability was influenced by
the harsh climate.
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