Symbolism
What do the Whales symbolize in this story?
They symbolize the connection to the Earth and nature. As well as the history of the Maori people. Their connection that was once lost.
Who has no significance to Koro?
KAHU:(
Kahu's main character traits?
Courageous, strong, determined, strong-minded, persistent, time to time impetuous.
(any of these are correct)
What is traditionally done for the choosing of the new chief? What is the main rule for the Chief choosing?
The chief choosing ceremony includes retrieving the carved stone thrown into the water. This is the last step that shows worth of the boy. The traditional rule for being chief is that they have to be male.
What does Koro Apirana value the most?
He values tradition and the choosing of the chiefs. His main/only goal is to choose a worthy man for their village.
What is the significance of Paikea in the story?
Paikea is their eldest ancestor, who was the first whale rider.
Which couple is having relationship issues?
Koro Apirana and Nanny Flowers. Although Koro's love for Nanny is strong, he does not think that she can do much. (This is what leads to Nanny Flowers always threatening to divorce him.)
What are Koro Apirana's main character traits?
Stubborn, persistent.
What is traditionally done with their birth cords?
They bury them in Whangara land. Kahu's birth cord was buried in the land where Kahutia Te Rangi could look over and protect her.
What does Kahu value the most?
Koro Apirana's love and attention
What does the mark tattooed on the Whale's head mean?
The mark is a sacred sign. It is a reminder of the oneness that the world once had with nature.
What is the conflict between the Maori people and whales?
Betrayal was the cause of their disconnection. The humans began to hunt the whales leading to distrust.
Main traits of Nanny Flowers?
Independent, strong, loving, caring, brave.
What do the Maori people value the most?
Nature and animals. Specifically the whales.
What does Koro throwing the stones in the water symbolize? What is the importance of the stone?
Koro Apirana throwing the stone in the water symbolizes the coming of a new chief. This is part of the ceremony and the person who retrieves the stone is chosen to be chief.
What is the conflict between Koro Apirana and Kahu?
All that Kahu wants is love from Koro, but he is blinded by tradition and finds no use for her.
What are the traits of the ancient bull whale?
loyal, caring, persistent, patient.
What does Kahu's ability to communicate with sea creatures symbolize?
This symbolizes how she was the chosen one, the chief of Maori. Kahutia Te Rangi.
Rawiri's traits?
Kind, brave, persistent, loving