The Apotamkin (also spelled apotampkin) is a creature in Native American mythology.[1] According to the mythology, it is a giant fanged sea monster that lives in the Passamaquoddy Bay and pulls people in to eat them, particularly careless children. It is said to have long red hair, and in some versions, it was a human woman before being changed into a serpent.[2] One interpretation of Apotamkin myth is that it was used to instill fear into children to keep them from venturing into areas alone and without parental guidance.[3][4]

In popular culture, Apotampkin was briefly referenced in the 2008 film Twilight. It is often mistakenly called a "vampire" by non-Native Americans, especially since it was named as such in the film, but in Maliseet and Passamaquoddy legends it is unrelated to vampires.

Whilst it is defined as a monster, it is not always evil. Its presence deters children from entering the water without parental supervision, avoiding injuries or death. The Passamaquoddy tribe believe that the Apotamkin prevents children from falling through thin ice etc.[5]

References

  1. ↑ Apotamkin Native American Mythology at godchecker.com
  2. ↑ "Apotamkin, the Real Story". Native American Language Net. Retrieved 23 December 2015.
  3. ↑ Krensky, Stephen (2007). The Bogeyman. Lerner Publications. p. 20. ISBN 978-0-8225-6760-8. OCLC 77476563.
  4. ↑ Rose, Carol (2001). Giants, Monsters, and Dragons: An Encyclopedia of Folklore, Legend, and Myth. W. W. Norton & Company. ISBN 978-0-393-32211-8. OCLC 48798119.
  5. ↑ "Native American Legend Of Apotamkin Teaches Children Obedience". Ancient Pages. Retrieved 14 June 2023.


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