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Pre-colonization. Native American Literature. Pictographs. Myths. Traditional stories passed down from generation to generation, usually involving immortal beings Types of Myths Attempt to explain natural phenomena Origins of humans Customs, rites, institutions, values
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Pre-colonization Native American Literature
Myths • Traditional stories passed down from generation to generation, usually involving immortal beings • Types of Myths • Attempt to explain natural phenomena • Origins of humans • Customs, rites, institutions, values • Events beyond people’s control
The Walam Olumpg. 14 • What type of myth is this? • How do you know?
The Wolf and the Terrapin(handout) • Summarize the myth. • What lesson is being taught? • How do you know? • In what way does the myth emphasize key elements of Native American culture?
Oral Tradition • Native Americans did not have formal written language • Pictographs were often memorized and passed down orally • Person with the best memory became the “keeper” of the tribe’s history, songs, and myths
Native American Poetry • Began as songs chanted to a regular beat. • How did they remember all of those tales? • How do you remember songs? • Repeated lines, phrases • Similar line/beat structure • Images and comparisons
Prose vs. Poetry • Prose stories tell of adventures of humans, animals , or supernatural beings; recount ancient times. • Allows them to pass on information, beliefs, and values • Poems were used only on special occasions and usually dealt with mystical experiences or the symbolic meaning of things or events. • Sung, chanted, and usually accompanied with drums or other instruments
Native American Myth Project • See Handout • Due 8/29