TED-Ed: A day in the life of an ancient Peruvian shaman

In 1400 BCE, Csos village faces dwindling fish and impending storms. Kexo, the village shaman, plans a ritual to prevent the bad weather. He gathers herbs and minerals, then attends a festival to trade for cinnabar, essential for his ritual. Unable to find it, he prepares for a dangerous journey to the mountains. Fortunately, he meets Highlanders and trades for cinnabar, returning to perform his ritual.

What unusual event does Kexo notice that prompts him to plan a ritual?

• An unexpected earthquake

• A still morning with no wind

• A solar eclipse

• A sudden increase in fish population

What is the primary purpose of the religious festival that Kexo attends?

• To commemorate a historical battle

• To honor the village elders

• To mark the beginning of the season of abundance

• To celebrate the end of the storm season

Why is cinnabar important to Kexo's ritual?

• It is a symbol of peace

• It is believed to ward off storms

• It is used to attract fish

• It is a gift for the temple priests

What role do women play during the festival's trade activities?

• They prepare food for the festival

• They handle trade transactions

• They lead the religious ceremonies

• They perform ceremonial dances

How does Kexo finally obtain the cinnabar he needs?

• He receives it from a Highlander in exchange for goods

• He creates it using local herbs

• He discovers it in the mountains

• He finds it in the temple