Fire
In both "Pandora's Box" and "Loo-Wit, the Fire Keeper," fire can be seen as a symbol that connects to the themes and messages of the stories.
In the Greek myth of Pandora's Box, fire represents the destructive power of curiosity and disobedience. When Pandora opens the box out of curiosity, she unleashes all the evils into the world, but she manages to close it in time to prevent hope from escaping. Fire symbolizes the punishment and consequences of her actions, as well as the transformative and purifying nature of suffering.
In the Native American legend of "Loo-Wit, the Fire Keeper" from the Pacific Northwest, fire symbolizes wisdom, balance, and harmony with nature. Loo-Wit, who transforms into Mount St. Helens is the guardian of fire and volcanic energy. The story emphasizes the importance of respecting and living in harmony with nature, highlighting the disastrous consequences of human greed and disrespect for the natural world. Fire, in this context, symbolizes both the destructive power of uncontrolled ambition and the need for balance and reverence for the natural order.
In both stories, fire carries a dual symbolism of destruction and transformation. It represents the consequences of human actions and the need for balance and wisdom. The theme or message connected to fire in both stories is the recognition of the power and responsibility that humans possess in their interactions with the world. It serves as a reminder of the importance of temperance, respect, and the understanding of the potential consequences of our choices.