Resurrection Lake

This myth centers around a lake rumored to be in the southern hemisphere of Arshilkrin. The lake is supposedly able to bring back the dead. It is uncertain whether a lake actually exists, because the region it is said to be in is extremely hard, almost impossible to travel and navigate through. Many mourners have tried to find the lake but they don't get far before reluctantly turning back.

Summary

Two men were fighting near the lake, what they were fighting over depends on the storyteller. One man cut down the other and shoved him face down into the water. When he was sure the other man was dead, he went on his way, having secured what they were fighting over. Later, however, the man returned to the lake to bathe, only to find the other man waiting for him. The other man killed him and buried his body in the woods. The man planted many vines, trees, and brambles to make the terrain impassible and prevent others from using the power of the lake to avoid death.

Historical Basis

There is no evidence a lake even exists in the location of the myth.  A fight as described in the myth may have happened, but that is also unclear and there is no historical record indicating it.

Spread

Most everyone has heard this story, aside from isolated communities.

Variations & Mutation

The main variation in the story is the reason for the men's fighting. It is often food, a person they are both interested in marrying, the land, or ideas.

Cultural Reception

There's a range of common perceptions of the story. Some people become obsessed with the lake when one of their loved ones dies. There are villages around the inaccessible area full of people who have tried and failed repeatedly to find the lake. For a lot of people, the emphasis is on the folly of the fight between the men, not even truly about the lake.  Other people believe the story to be wholly false, and can sometimes be judgmental of the people who believe the lake is real.

In Literature

There are a number of stories about the lake. They are usually about the man using the lake to live forever, or heroes setting out and reaching the lake to bring back their family member/lover/friend/beloved pet.

Related Locations

• Arshilkrin