Yatsedu’sa’tz

Source: 
Tahltan Tales
by James A. Teit
The American Folklore Society
Journal of American Folklore
Vol.32, No.124, pp.198-250
April-June, 1917
Vol.34, No.133, pp.223-253
July-September, 1921
Vol.34, No.134, pp.335-356
October-December, 1921

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► Themes of the story

Mythical Creatures: The story centers on interactions with giants, beings of immense size and strength.

Cunning and Deception: The man’s survival may involve using wit to navigate his captivity and the giant’s actions.

Community and Isolation: The man’s abduction by the giant separates him from his community, emphasizing themes of isolation and the desire for return.

► From the same Region or People

• North America
  • Sub-Arctic Region
    • Tahltan Lore

Learn more about Tahltan people

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There were giants of two kinds. One kind, called Yatsedu’sa’tz, were very tall, almost reaching the sky. They did not kill people, but sometimes stole them and made pets of them. The other kind were much smaller; they were cannibals, and ate people. Once a giant took a man away. He was very much amused at his small size and the small amount he ate. He asked him often if he had eaten enough, and then laughed heartily.

After travelling some distance, he said to the man, “Grandson, I am sleepy, and will lie down.” He had just finished a meal of five caribou. He stretched himself, knocking down the trees all around him with his arms and legs. He called the man to come to bed, and put him in his armpit. It was as large as a house, and the man had plenty of room. Some trees fell down across his arm and on his shoulder, but the man was safe in the armpit.