Earth scientist Anjana Khatwa examined how ancient mythology served as an oral map of volcanic activity in a Royal Institution presentation [1].
This intersection of indigenous knowledge and earth science suggests that early civilizations understood geological processes long before the advent of modern scientific theory. By linking mythology to physical geography, Khatwa said the environment directly shaped the cultural and societal development of Pacific islanders.
In the second part of the series titled "How geology built civilisation," Khatwa focuses on the Hawaiian archipelago [1]. She said the stories of the goddess Pele were not merely myths but served as a method for ancient Hawaiians to track and understand the movement of volcanic activity across their islands [1]. This oral tradition allowed populations to navigate and survive in a high-risk geological zone.
Khatwa also explores the role of pounamu, or greenstone, in Aotearoa New Zealand [1]. She said the presence and location of this stone acted as a geological marker for the people of the region. The pursuit and mapping of pounamu provided an early framework for understanding the volcanic landscape of the islands [1].
The presentation was filmed on April 26, 2026 [1]. It argues that geology is not just a study of rocks but a foundational element of human civilization [1]. Through these examples, Khatwa said the sophistication of indigenous observation and the accuracy of the records passed down through generations were evident.
By analyzing these cultural narratives, scientists can gain a deeper perspective on the historical behavior of volcanoes. The integration of oral histories with geological data provides a more comprehensive timeline of earth movements in the Pacific region [1].
“Ancient Hawaiians mapped their volcanic islands through mythology long before modern geological theory.”
The recognition of mythology as a form of geological record-keeping bridges the gap between indigenous knowledge and Western science. It suggests that traditional oral histories can provide critical data for understanding long-term environmental patterns and natural disaster risks in regions where written records are absent.
