Coyote the Comanche Trickster
Coyote is the central trickster figure in Comanche folklore. Unlike the spider tricksters of other Plains tribes, Coyote is a clever but flawed creature who often helps humans while constantly getting into trouble due to greed, dishonesty, and recklessness. Many Comanche storytellers refer to Coyote affectionately as the brother of the Comanches. In one tale, Coyote tries to steal fire from the fire people and is burned, explaining his singed fur. In another, he tricks prairie dogs into leaving their holes so he can catch them, but is himself outwitted by Skunk. Coyote stories teach social val