Lunar Eclipse Myths and Legends

The Maya believed that a giant celestial jaguar attacked the Moon during a lunar eclipse.

• True

• False

According to Maya mythology, what did people do to stop the celestial jaguar from devouring the Moon?

• Prayed in silence

• Made loud noises and banged drums

• Lit candles and performed dances

• Covered their faces and hid indoors

In medieval Europe, people thought that a lunar eclipse was a good omen that brought prosperity.

• True

• False

In medieval Europe, what supernatural creature was associated with lunar eclipses?

• Vampires

• Ghosts

• Werewolves

• Witches

According to Chinese mythology, people would remain silent and pray when a dragon was devouring the Moon.

• False

• True

What was the main reason ancient Chinese people believed a lunar eclipse happened?

• The gods were angry

• A celestial dragon was eating the Moon

• The Moon was tired and resting

• A great flood was coming

What action did the Incas take during a lunar eclipse to try and protect the Moon?

• They fired weapons at the sky

• They stayed indoors and prayed

• They held a festival to celebrate

• They fasted for a whole day

Why did the Navajo people avoid looking at the eclipse?

• They believed it would bring bad luck

• They thought it would turn them into monsters

• They saw it as a moment of reflection and respect for nature

• They feared the Moon would steal their soul

The Incas believed that a cosmic serpent or jaguar was responsible for lunar eclipses.

• True

• False

The Navajo people believed that they needed to make noise to save the Moon from being eaten.

• False

• True