Native American Texts
What types of literary works dominate the pre-colonialism era?
Creation myths and exploration accounts.
Who was Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca?
A Spanish explorer who landed in Galveston Island, Texas.
What does the Tree of Long Leaves symbolize?
Collective defense and unity.
What literary device is most prominent in "The World on the Turtle's Back"?
Personification.
How do the Iroquois and American Constitutions emphasize unity?
Both prioritize collaboration and mutual support.
Who wrote the memoir that includes a return to Rainy Mountain?
N. Scott Momaday.
What does Cabeza de Vaca challenge in "La Relación"?
The idea of European superiority.
Who was Dekanawidah?
An Iroquois leader who co-wrote their constitution.
What is symbolism?
A device where symbols represent larger ideas or concepts.
Identify a shared value between Native American cultures and European explorers.
The importance of community and survival.
Name one theme prominent in "The World on the Turtle's Back."
The significance of balance and harmony.
How does Cabeza de Vaca's perspective change throughout "La Relación"?
He grows more sympathetic to Native cultures.
What is one way the Iroquois Constitution differs from European documents?
Its inclusion of women in the power structure.
How does personification play a role in Native American texts?
It gives life to natural elements and illustrates cultural beliefs.
What role do women play in the Iroquois governance?
They have significant influence and participate in decision-making.
What animal retrieved soil for the Sky Woman in "The World on the Turtle's Back"?
The muskrat.
What type of source is "La Relación"?
A primary source.
How does the Iroquois Constitution promote unity?
By instituting checks and balances and impeachment processes for lords who do not care for the people
Name a common element linking the worldview in the texts we've studied.
The value of interconnectedness.
Compare the portrayal of Native Americans in Cabeza de Vaca's account and later European texts.
Cabeza de Vaca portrays them with empathy, while later texts often depict them as savages.
Describe the significance of deer antlers in the works we've read.
They are a symbol of power.
Summarize how the Karankawas treated Cabeza de Vaca and his men.
They showed compassion and empathy, providing food and shelter.
Explain the significance of the Great Binding Law.
It focuses on principles of peace, power, and righteousness & also influenced the U.S. Constitution.
Describe the significance of the eagle in the Iroquois Constitution.
It represents vigilance and protection for the people, which is what our military represents.
Discuss the importance of interconnectedness in Native American literature.
It emphasizes relationships among people, nature, and the spiritual world.