Here are some links I found using Google:
- Gods of Japan: INARI
- The Kitsune Page
- Books Pertaining to Kitsune and Fox Mythology
- Fox Spirits in Asia, and Asian Fox Spirits in the West
- Kitsune: Coyote of the Orient
I would definitely recommend reading - or looking into - the books on the book lists provided.
Whilst Kishimoto’s Kurama is a little bit of a twist on the fox spirit, it has a lot of the fundamental characteristics such as a mischievous temper and the possession of a ‘host’. If you’re not a fan of NARUTO already, it might be a manga story you can develop an interest in! There are lots of references to traditional Japanese folklore, especially where the ‘Tailed Beasts' are concerned.
Whilst I can’t promise Kurama is a true representation of a Kitsune (he’s not the only one you should look at), that is his species, and in regards to how he interacts with the other Tailed Beasts, he’s difficult, often unwilling to cooperate and prides himself as the strongest (since he has the most tails). He’s cynical, shrewd and interestingly uses the pronoun ‘washi’ in reference to himself, which is used by older men. It makes sense, as the wisdom and abilities of the Kitsune in folklore depends on the amount of tails they have, nine being the most they can acquire.
Unfortunately, that’s all I have and I think it’s something you’re going to have to look into yourself to get a detailed, well-rounded answer.
Followers, if you have knowledge that could help, by all means share it with a reblog or reply!
Best of luck, Anon.
- enlee