Hynes, William J. and William G. Doty, Ed. Mythical Trickster Figures: Contours, Contexts, and Criticisms. Tuscaloosa: University of Alabama Press. 1993.

Chapter 13 "Inconclusive Conclusions: Tricksters -- Metaplayers and Revealers" by William J. Hynes
Trickster Tales

1. Trickster myths are deeply satisfying entertainment.
2. Trickster myths are ritual vents for social frustrations.
3. Tricksters reaffirm the belief system.
4. Tricksters are psychic explorers and adventurers.
5. Tricksters are agents of creativity who transcend the constrictions of monoculturality.
6. Tricksterish metaplay dissolves the order of things in the depth of the open-ended metaplay of life.

Chapter 3 "Mapping the Characteristics of Mythic Tricksters: A Heuristic Guide" by William J. Hynes
Trickster Traits

1. The fundamentally ambiguous and anomalous personality of the trickster.
2. Deceiver and trick-player
3. Shape-shifter
4. Situations-invertor
5. Messenger and imitator of the gods
6. Sacred and lewd bricoleur (tinker or fix-it person)