Characters
Who is the main character and narrator of the story?
Martin
Where does Martin live when his grandfather visits?
In the city
What is the medicine bag?
A small leather pouch containing sacred family items.
What is the main theme of the story?
Respect and pride in cultural heritage and family traditions.
What tribe does Martin’s family belong to?
The Sioux (Lakota)
Who is Martin’s grandfather?
Grandpa Joe Iron Shell
What does Grandpa give Martin that changes his view?
The medicine bag
What does the medicine bag represent?
Family heritage, tradition, and identity.
What does Martin learn about his grandfather by the end?
To appreciate and respect him and his culture.
Where does Grandpa live?
On a Native American reservation
Who is Martin’s sister
Cheryl
What is Martin asked to do after receiving the medicine bag?
Put a piece of prairie sage inside and never open it until passing it on.
What are some of the items inside the medicine bag?
A piece of iron, sacred sage, and a rock from the family’s ancestral land
What kind of irony is shown when Martin feels embarrassed but later proud?
Situational irony.
What does the rock inside the medicine bag represent?
The family’s ancestral land or butte.
Why does Martin feel embarrassed at first?
Because his grandfather looks tired, old, and different from how Martin imagined.
What causes Martin’s embarrassment at the beginning of the story?
Grandpa arrives unexpectedly looking tired and worn, unlike the heroic image Martin had told.
Why must Martin never open the medicine bag after putting the sage inside?
Because it is sacred and must be kept closed until passed on
How does the medicine bag symbolize responsibility?
It is passed down through generations, and Martin must add to it and pass it on.
What cultural practice is shown through the medicine bag?
Passing down family heirlooms and traditions through generations.
How do Martin’s friends react when they meet Grandpa?
They respect him and are interested in his stories.
When does Martin finally wear the medicine bag?
At Grandpa’s funeral
Who originally made the medicine bag?
Grandpa’s father (Martin’s great-grandfather) during a vision quest
How does Martin’s attitude toward his heritage change?
He changes from embarrassment to pride and acceptance.
What is the significance of the vision quest mentioned in the story?
It is a spiritual journey where the medicine bag’s iron piece was found, symbolizing strength and resilience.