What Makes the Earth Shake?

Front

What is an earthquake?

Back

An earthquake is a sudden shaking of the ground caused by the movement of rocks beneath the Earth's surface.

Front

What causes earthquakes?

Back

Earthquakes are caused by the movement of tectonic plates, volcanic activity, or human activities.

Front

Who is Namazu?

Back

Namazu is a giant catfish in Japanese mythology that is said to cause earthquakes when it moves.

Front

What is Kwawar?

Back

Kwawar is a character in mythology that does not cause earthquakes.

Front

What do many earthquake myths involve?

Back

Many earthquake myths involve special beings or animals that are not human.

Front

What happens when Kashima leaves his place?

Back

When Kashima leaves his place, Namazu wiggles wildly, causing an earthquake.

Front

What do the trees represent in the West African earthquake story?

Back

In the West African story, the trees represent the giant's hair.

Front

Why do myths often use animals to explain earthquakes?

Back

Myths often use animals because people are familiar with them and they help explain natural events.

Front

What is the role of turtles in some earthquake myths?

Back

In some myths, turtles are blamed for causing earthquakes.

Front

What is a common theme in earthquake myths?

Back

A common theme is that the Earth was once made only of water.