Historical lenses
Thomas King was born to a ___ mother & ___ father
Greek, Cherokee
What do the Magpies symbolize in the story?
They symbolize death, as well as being a trickster
What is the Mood of the story?
Uneasy, anxious, reflective
How did Europeans view Indigenous healing practises?
They were outlawed, seen as "superstitious"
Explain the characterization of Granny
She doesn't fear death, and uses humour to cope. She values her cultural identity a lot, only wanting to die at the reserve.
Explain the characterization of Wilma
She thinks that you should always move on with life, and never dwell in the past. She has colonial views, being assimilated into Catholicism.
How is resurgence shown in the story?
The storytelling itself is a form of resurgence, honouring oral tradition and keeps Granny’s spirit alive. The tree becomes a symbol of cultural rebirth, because Granny is returning to nature and tradition.
Explain promises, regarding Indigenous culture
Promises were seen as sacred, equal to a legitimate contract.
What is 2nd person narration?
When the narrator is directly talking to the reader
Explain the conflicts in the story
Character vs Self: Ambrose has to fulfill the promise he made with Granny, even though he knows it'll cause distress.
Character vs Society: Ambrose gets into a situation with the RCMP officers, who are trying to uphold the law.
How is resistance shown in the story?
Granny resists being buried “the white man’s way” and insists on being laid to rest according to her beliefs. Ambrose also resists the colonial system by digging her up and giving her a traditional Indigenous burial. The act of not following the hospital/church’s way is a form of cultural resistance.