Question

Summarize the plot of the myth “The Beginnings of the Maasai.”

Answer 1

Life was peaceful for Neiterkob, the herder of cattle and father of the Maasai. Then, a volcano erupted and sent his cattle flying into the air, where they could not survive. Finally, the wise god Enkai grew a giant fig tree so the cattle could climb back to earth. This is one of the reasons cattle are sacred to the Maasai people.

Answer 2

In "The Beginnings of the Maasai," the daughter of the Maasai explains the relationship between the Maasai and their sky god Enkai. She explains how a volcanic eruption sent Enkai and the cattle into the sky. In order to save the cattle, Enkai created a giant tree that allowed them to walk back to earth. Then, Enkai entrusted Neiterkob, the narrator's father, and his tribe to care for the cattle. As a result, the cattle are sacred to the Maasai, and the Maasai maintain a close connection with Enkai.

I hope that helped.