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Origins & Encounters

Explore the rich tapestry of Native American literature, delving into the oral traditions passed down through generations. Discover the significance of creation myths and the role they play in shaping cultural beliefs and values. Gain insights into the diverse tribal histories and intricate storytelling techniques that have preserved ancient wisdom. Uncover the unique literary devices used to convey the interconnectedness between humans and the natural world, fostering a deep respect for the environment. Dive into the world of trickster tales, where cunning characters challenge social norms and offer valuable life lessons. Through this exploration, see how Native American cultures have thrived by connecting with their ancestral heritage and sustaining a harmonious relationship with the world around them.

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Origins & Encounters

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  1. Origins & Encounters Honors English III

  2. Create a chart in your notebook • Once finished: • In your group, discuss each other’s charts. • Do you notice similarities & differences? • How have different cultures comprised our country over time? Home Cultures & How they Connect to America

  3. 1st American literature produced by Native Americans • Native Americans did not think of themselves as living in one nation • Belonged to more than 200 distinct groups • Spoke more than 500 languages • Referred to themselves as “the people” in various languages • Ways of life varied according to natural surroundings Native American Life

  4. Reflected in their literature: • Religious beliefs • Sophisticated political systems • Strong social values Native American Life

  5. Primarily oral • Passed down from generation to generation • Storytelling & Performances • What type of source is this? • Types of Oral Literature • Creation Myths • Explain the beginning of the world • Trickster & Hero Tales • Explain how world was transformed to present state • Express common beliefs & values • Ritual Songs & Chants • Part of religious ceremonies Elements of NA Literature

  6. Emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with natural world • Humans have a kinship with animals, plants, land, etc. • Things seen as alive and aware. • What literary device is at work here? • Human & nonhuman seen as parts of sacred whole • Humans don’t rule the world. Instead both live harmonious with each other. • Humans must maintain a true relationship with the world around them. Elements of NA Literature

  7. How young learned tribal history and beliefs • No written language • Long periods of memorization • Drum music • Pictographs (“WalamOlum”) • Knotted strings & belts • Rhythmic repetition • Communicated with animals, nature, and world of spirit • These devices make memorization easier Oral Traditions

  8. Young could ingrain these stories into their heads because of these mechanisms. • Literature was fluid and ever changing • Written word is much different than the spoken. • Removed from the oral tradition • Written records of oral performances • 7 day festivals to bedtime stories • What type of source is this? Oral Tradition

  9. Explanations of how the world works • Answers big life questions • Not to be taken literally • Respect & work with nature • Offer insight into universal questions Creation Myths

  10. According to Joseph Campbell, myths have 4 functions: • To instill awe • To explain world • To support customs • To guide people • Consider these items when reading “The World on the Turtle’s Back” Creation Myths

  11. Source of entertainment • Origin tales • Express values/beliefs • Coyote, Raven, “The Tricky One” • Human & Nonhuman Characteristics • Polarizing • Sacred/Profane, Human/Non, Deceiving/deceived • Lacks morals, but teaches them Trickster Tales

  12. Sung as prayers for rain or to cure the sick • Before battles • Ceremonial, healing, war songs • Repetition Songs

  13. Myth Creation Myth • Traditional story • Passed from generation to generation • Explain ways of world • Result from actions of supernatural beings • How universe, life, earth began • Supernatural explanation of world’s origin • Cause and effect Myth vs. Creation Myth

  14. League of 5 separate NA peoples • Seneca, Cayuga, Oneida, Onondaga, Mohawk • United in 14th century • Lived in present day NY state • Spoke similar languages • Lived in longhouses with fences for protection • Women grew veggies & gathered nuts/berries • Men fished, hunted, & fought with Mahican people • Warfare gave men power and prestige Iroquois

  15. Where do we see coyotes in pop culture? • What type of character are they? • Okanogan Culture • Central Washington state • British Columbia • Animal People • Supernatural beings to first inhabit the world • Alter shapes • Animal or human form Trickster Tales

  16. Coyote is said to have killed monsters, brought fire & caught salmon. • Trickster • Animal or human who engages in deceit, violence, or magic • Explains a feature of the world • Foolish & clever • Greedy & helpful • Immoral & Moral Trickster Tales

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