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Certain types of totem poles are part of mortuary structures, and incorporate grave boxes with carved supporting poles, or recessed backs for grave boxes. Poles illustrate stories that commemorate historic persons, represent shamanic powers, or provide objects of public ridicule




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a lengthy struggle to repatriate a sacred totem

Some of the figures on the poles constitute symbolic reminders of quarrels, murders, debts, and other unpleasant occurrences

The most widely known tales, like those of the exploits of Raven and of Kats

Poles used for public ridicule are usually called "shame poles"

One famous shame pole is the Seward Pole in Saxman, Alaska. It was apparently created to shame the former U.S. Secretary of State for not repaying a potlatch to the Tlingit people. The intent of the shame pole was indicated by the figure's nose and ears being painted red, to indicate his stinginess